Donmar Warehouse Executive Producer James Bierman is to leave the Covent Garden venue to become Executive Director at Islington’s Almeida theatre. He will take up the position in early 2011.
Speaking about the appointment, Michael Attenborough, Artistic Director of the Almeida theatre, said: “James’s experience and track-record uniquely qualify him for the exciting times that lie ahead for the Almeida; and, having now spent some time with him, I have no doubt that he will be warmly welcomed by everyone here as our new Executive Director.”
Bierman was named Executive Producer of the Donmar Warehouse in January 2009, having held the role of Acting Executive Producer for the previous nine months. His time in the role saw the intimate London venue go from strength to strength, transferring productions to Broadway, staging the successful Donmar West End season and collecting a host of awards on both sides of the Atlantic. He had previously been General Manager at the Donmar Warehouse and at the Aldwych theatre.
Bierman commented: “I am thrilled to be joining Michael and his wonderful team at the Almeida. It is a theatre I have loved as an audience member and this unique opportunity to play a part in helping shape its future was something I just couldn’t turn down. The Donmar has been a wonderful home for nearly five years and I thank everyone there who has made my time so memorable. I wish Michael Grandage and the team nothing but continued success.”
Islington’s Almeida theatre is currently staging a theatrical adaptation of David Mamet’s con thriller House Of Games, which opened last week. Its autumn/winter season will continue with a production of Ibsen’s The Master Builder starring Stephen Dillane and Gemma Arterton, which opens in November.
MA