Punchdrunk Enrichment’s Peter Higgin to Step Down as Artistic Director After Nearly 25 Years

A New Chapter Begins for the Pioneers of Immersive Learning

Punchdrunk Enrichment has announced that Peter Higgin, its Artistic Director and Joint CEO, will step down after 17 years leading the charity. A founding member of Punchdrunk, Higgin co-created the Enrichment division in 2008 to bring immersive storytelling to schools and communities, pioneering immersive learning techniques worldwide.

Higgin will remain in his role until a successor is appointed, and will continue to offer guidance and support as a Founding Artistic Director. The search for a new artistic leader is now open.

A Legacy of Transformative Theatre

Higgin has been instrumental in shaping immersive theatre’s role in education. Under his leadership, Punchdrunk Enrichment has developed groundbreaking productions, including:

🎭 The Lost Lending Library – A magical installation project, now touring internationally
🎭 Enitan’s Game – A theatrical experience for 7-11 year-olds and their families
🎭 Small Wonders – An intimate storytelling adventure
🎭 Against Captain’s Orders – A family show created with the National Maritime Museum

Higgin’s pioneering work has brought immersive learning into classrooms worldwide, influencing educators and students through theatrical experiences designed to ignite creativity and imagination.

Leadership Reflections

Jon Gisby, Chair of Trustees at Punchdrunk Enrichment, praised Higgin’s impact:

“Peter has dedicated so much of his life to Punchdrunk Enrichment, bringing immersive theatre to schools, families, and communities. He has given thousands of people access to unforgettable creative experiences. We thank him for his tireless work and look forward to welcoming the next visionary leader to take the charity forward.”

Higgin reflected on his departure, saying:

“I am extremely proud of what we have built at Punchdrunk Enrichment and how we have evolved over the years. I’m deeply grateful to the team and will always cherish the impact we have made together. This role is an amazing opportunity for someone passionate about immersive storytelling and socially engaged practice.”

The Search for a New Artistic Director Begins

The recruitment process is now open for a new Artistic Director and Joint CEO. The selected candidate will lead Punchdrunk Enrichment into its next chapter, developing new immersive projects, educational initiatives, and international collaborations.

A Future of Innovation and Expansion

Punchdrunk Enrichment remains committed to pushing the boundaries of immersive storytelling. Current initiatives include:

🎭 Immersive Learning Journeys – A long-term educational research project in Greenwich schools
🎭 Brent Young Makers – A mentoring programme for young people exploring backstage theatre careers
🎭 International Tours – Expanding The Lost Lending Library and other productions globally

The charity also recently secured a major Arts Council investment for Vi-Brent, a three-year cultural development programme set to transform arts accessibility in Brent.

Join the Next Chapter of Punchdrunk Enrichment

As Peter Higgin prepares to step down, Punchdrunk Enrichment is looking ahead to an exciting future of new leadership, innovation, and continued impact in communities across the UK and beyond.