SEALL is thrilled to announce Benny Goodman as its new Creative Director. A rising star in the UK theatre scene, Benny brings award winning expertise in lighting design, a wealth of production experience, and a passion for creative collaboration. He steps into the role ready to shape SEALL’s ambitious programme of music, theatre, dance, literature, comedy, and community events across Skye, Raasay, and Lochalsh. Following a handover period, Benny will take up the role in January 2026.
Gareth Morgan, Chair of the Board, said:
“The SEALL Board is delighted to welcome Benny Goodman as our new Creative Director. Benny is returning to an organisation he first volunteered with at the outset of his career in the creative industries. A graduate of the Royal Conservatoire, he has built a highly successful career in lighting design and production and now takes up the challenge of leading SEALL’s creative vision. From a strong field of candidates, Benny’s application stood out for its evocative and personal connection to the community. We are excited to see how SEALL develops under his leadership.
“The Board also wants to place on record our thanks to outgoing Creative Director, Jamie Sutherland. Under Jamie’s stewardship, SEALL has secured multi-year funding from Creative Scotland, built enduring partnerships with Bòrd na Gàidhlig and a range of other key partners, and delivered a fantastic programme of events. The upcoming Festival of Small Halls serves as a fitting reminder of Jamie’s dedication and hard work, and we wish him and his family well.”
Benny Goodman, incoming Creative Director, said:
“I’m delighted to be taking on the role of Creative Director at SEALL. Growing up on Skye, the organisation played a huge part in shaping my early interest in the arts, so it’s a real privilege to come back and contribute to the fantastic and inspiring work SEALL is doing. I’m very much looking forward to working with the team, our partners, and the wider community to build on strong foundations and support a vibrant and ambitious programme for the years ahead.”
Having grown up in Skye, Benny left the island and studied Lighting Design at the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland, graduating in 2017 with the Simon Crowther Award for Excellence and Commitment to the Institution. Since then, he has worked on a wide range of productions in theatres around the UK and in Europe and has been a long standing creative collaborator with acclaimed theatre company Wonder Fools. His work spans lighting design, production, and creative development, bringing a wealth of experience to SEALL’s programme.
SEALL, now in its fourth decade, continues to present an ambitious programme of events across Skye, Raasay and Lochalsh. Benny’s appointment marks an exciting new chapter as the organisation builds on recent successes and looks ahead to future festivals, partnerships and creative initiatives.