The woman behind one of Cornwall's most famous theatre venues has been named among the top 100 most inspirational people in the industry.

Zoë Curnow, executive director of the Minack Theatre has been included in The Stage 100 for 2021.

Typically dedicated to the 100 most influential people working in the theatre industry, this year’s list has been curated to honour inspiring theatre-makers during the pandemic.

Zoë is recognised for her tireless determination to bring live theatre safely back to Cornwall in the summer of 2020, which resulted in the Minack being the first theatre in the country to stage outdoor live performances after the first lockdown ended.

Zoë said: “The shared experience of live theatre is a life-affirming event and, as an outdoor venue, we felt it was vital for us to give people the opportunity to enjoy it, during these dark times.

"We put a lot of work into making it possible for people to feel comfortable coming to the theatre again and to ensure the safety of audiences, actors and staff. We also wanted to provide opportunities for professional actors and creative people to work at a time when our industry is under such pressure.

"It wasn’t exactly a normal year, but the public response was tremendous and showed us just how much everyone needs the arts.”

Zoë has no plans to rest on her laurels, however. She’s busy putting together the programme for 2021.

“It’s a challenge, planning a season when we don’t know where the country will be by Easter, but whatever happens, provided we’re allowed to open, the Minack will be ready. Just watch this space,” she added.

Also included in the Stage 100 list are theatre director Michael Grandage, who grew up in Penzance, and former director of Cornish theatre company Kneehigh Emma Rice.