The National Theatre has announced the appointment of Indhu Rubasingham as its next Director and Joint Chief Executive. Indhu will work alongside Executive Director Kate Varah who also becomes Joint Chief Executive in a co-leadership model.
Indhu will succeed current Director and Chief Executive Rufus Norris, who will leave the National Theatre in Spring 2025 when his second term ends.
Speaking about her appointment, Indhu said:
‘It’s a huge honour to be appointed Director of the National Theatre – for me, this is the best job in the world. The National has played an important part in my life – from tentative steps as a teenage theatregoer, to later as a theatre-maker, and to have the opportunity to play a role in its history is an incredible privilege and responsibility. Theatre has a transformative power – the ability to bring people together through shared experience and storytelling, and nowhere more so than the National.
I’ve been fortunate to have directed on the National Theatre’s stages, and witnessed firsthand the commitment, collaboration, brilliance and pride of those who bring the magic to the building, both on stage and off. There’s nowhere like it, and it will be a joy to be a part of this iconic building’s next chapter, leading the company alongside Kate. I am thrilled to be following in the footsteps of Rufus, and I look forward to working closely with him from next year as I plan my first season.’
Executive Director Kate Varah said,
‘I am thrilled that Indhu will be the National Theatre’s next Director, someone I deeply admire as an artist and as a leader. Importantly, I believe we share the same values and aspirations for this incomparable theatre. I look forward to starting a new chapter leading together, working with the best artists and colleagues to make theatre that entertains and inspires audiences across the world.’
Sir Damon Buffini, Chair of the National Theatre Board said:
‘The Board are thrilled to appoint Indhu as the next Director and Joint Chief Executive. Having run Kiln Theatre for over a decade Indhu has a proven record of strong leadership and artistic success, alongside a commitment to bringing theatre to diverse audiences and broadening access to creative education. Throughout the recruitment process Indhu demonstrated to the panel her clear vision for the National Theatre’s next chapter, displaying her passion and commitment to bring the world to the National Theatre and to take the National Theatre to the world.
On behalf of my panel Co-Chair, fellow Trustee Simon Warshaw, I’d like to offer my thanks to the Board and the succession panel for their dedication and support during this recruitment process. We were extremely lucky to meet with an exceptionally impressive field of candidates who were all strong contenders for the role. Throughout the thorough process it was clear to us all that Indhu possesses the skills and vision, alongside those of our brilliant Executive Director and Joint CEO Kate, to confidently lead the National Theatre into our next chapter.’
Photo credit – ©Antonio Olmos / National Theatre