MEET THE TEAM
Co-founders and Directors Charis and Ruth met whilst training at the Royal Birmingham Conservatoire. Their training gave Calathea Arts a strong foundation of high quality artistic practice, connecting them as storytellers and theatre makers with social justice at the core of their work.
Charis McRoberts - Co-Director & Founder
At the core of Charis’ work is play, imagination and heaps of heart. Charis has a great love for stories that shape our understanding of ourselves and others. She is particularly passionate about history, heritage and the human experience. Charis hopes her work will bring people together, sparking conversation and prompting reflection and change within society. Off the Calathea clock, Charis is an internationally acclaimed playwright, facilitator and creative with a love for BSL, nature and National Trust properties.
Ruth Mestel - Co-Director & Founder
At the heart of Ruth's practice is collaboration, curiosity, and a good bit of creative mischief. She believes storytelling helps us make sense of the world and prompts better, kinder ways to live in it. Ruth is drawn to projects that champion self-acceptance, social justice, and leave you smiling on the way home. Outside of Calathea, she’s a freelance writer and theatre maker who loves live music, House dance, and is currently having fun learning Spanish.
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Pip Kilborn - Board Of Directors
Pip joined the board in 2025. He works in finance and business management and has a passion for supporting grassroot organisations. Pip is motivated and inspired to bridge the gap between business and creativity to leave a lasting impact in communities.
Fran Richards - Associate Artist
Fran is a dynamic creative practitioner and director with over a decade of experience facilitating arts-based projects across the UK. She is deeply passionate about engaging young people and communities through creative expression. Fran leads her own projects and also consults widely, bringing her expertise to organisations both locally and further afield. Outside of work, Fran is an avid reader who loves long walks (preferably on a beach) followed by an aperol spritz!
