La Boite Loses Stewart, Almeida Sees Goold Transition
Courtney Stewart, artistic director at Brisbane's century-old La Boite Theatre, has stepped down after four years. Her tenure included productions like 'Macbeth' and the company's first international co-production, 'Congratulations, Get Rich!'. Under Stewart's leadership, La Boite secured entry into the National Performing Arts Partnership Framework, a stable eight-year investment program from Creative Australia. The company's current production, 'Eat Slay Zombie', runs until May 30. Ian Prowse has been appointed interim CEO.
Meanwhile, Rupert Goold concluded his 11-year tenure as artistic director at London's Almeida Theatre. He moves to The Old Vic, taking on the role of artistic director there. Denise Wood, Executive Director at the Almeida, is also departing. Goold's move to The Old Vic was announced on November 27, 2024, coinciding with the theatre's plans to open its Backstage building, focusing on community engagement and artist development.
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The Old Vic Welcomes Goold, Loses Warchus
The appointment of Rupert Goold at The Old Vic follows the departure of Matthew Warchus, who is set to step down as artistic director in September 2026 after 11 years. Warchus, who began his role in 2015, described his time at The Old Vic as a privilege, aiming to deliver 'entertainment with a purpose'. The Old Vic board has initiated recruitment for Warchus's successor, with the process set to begin this summer. Rebecca Frecknall, an associate director from the Almeida, will join Goold at The Old Vic.
Industry Challenges Echo Amidst Leadership Changes
The departures come against a backdrop of reported challenges within the arts sector. Kwame Kwei-Armah stepped down as artistic director of London's Young Vic on February 8, 2024, highlighting the difficult landscape for UK theatre. Kwei-Armah called for 'government intervention' to support a sector still recovering from the pandemic and grappling with rising costs and funding cuts. During his tenure, Kwei-Armah oversaw 40 productions at the Young Vic, with a significant focus on diverse representation among writers and directors.
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Other Departures and Transitions
Joe Murphy is slated to leave his position as Artistic Director at Sherman Theatre in Spring 2025, after five years. The theatre aims to build on his legacy of developing Welsh and Wales-based artists.
Studio Theatre's Artistic Director is reportedly planning to step down in 2027.
