Edward Hall has been named the new Artistic Director and Chief Executive of Hampstead theatre. He will replace current Artistic Director Anthony Clark at the end of January.
The son of ground-breaking British director Sir Peter Hall, Edward Hall is an associate of the National Theatre, Old Vic and Watermill theatre. He has won numerous awards for his previous productions which include the highly acclaimed Rose Rage, A Midsummer Night’s Dream, Twelfth Night and The Taming Of The Shrew, which were performed by his all-male company Propeller.
“Hampstead theatre and I share a passion for finding new audiences for theatre,” Hall commented, “and I am thrilled to be taking over as Artistic Director. I am excited by the company’s long and successful association with new writing and with the opportunities the building offers in creating a dynamic dialogue between the audience and the actors.”
Hampstead theatre, under the guidance of outgoing Artistic Director Clark, moved to its purpose built Swiss Cottage building in 2003, celebrating its 50th anniversary last year with a season of revivals and readings from each of its five decades alongside four new plays.
Its new year opens with A Jubilee For Anton Chekhov and continues with Royal Shakespeare Company productions Dunsinane and The Gods Weep, Out Of Joint co-production Andersen’s English and Jonathan Harvey’s new play Canary. Hall’s first season, which will open in the autumn, will be announced in late spring/early summer.
Jenny Abramsky, Chair of the Board of Hampstead theatre, is looking forward to that announcement: “Edward has an enormous amount of energy and confidence to bring to the company. He has broad experience across the theatre and film mediums, and an infectious excitement for bringing the most innovative theatre-makers together. We eagerly anticipate his first season.”
MA