Laura Stevenson Announced as New Executive Director

We are delighted to announce that Laura Stevenson has been appointed as Executive Director, working alongside Artistic Director Matthew Warchus to further the artistic and social mission of The Old Vic.

Laura, who will join the theatre in July, is an experienced arts leader whose previous roles include Executive Director of Sadler’s Wells, Deputy Director of the Hayward Gallery and, in recent years, senior executive positions at the Royal Opera House and the Royal Shakespeare Company.

Laura will succeed Kate Varah who leaves the theatre after 12 years, seven years as Executive Director, to take up the position of Executive Director at the National Theatre.

On her appointment, Laura said ‘It is a huge honour to have been appointed Executive Director and I am greatly looking forward to working with Matthew Warchus and the fantastic team. The Old Vic is a very special place and a theatre I have long admired. Some of our great arts institutions sprung from The Old Vic, one of which was a formative part of my own career, and I already feel a great connection to this theatre. Kate has done an extraordinary job over the last 12 years, and I am thrilled to have the opportunity to build on her legacy.’

Artistic Director, Matthew Warchus, said ‘I am delighted to welcome Laura Stevenson as our new Executive Director at The Old Vic. I know she’ll be a great galvanising addition to the leadership team as we move into this new, post-pandemic chapter in the extraordinary history of this unique theatre. Laura will be heading up a truly brilliant group of people who make up The Old Vic back of house and front of house staff – all dedicated to bringing our local, national and international audiences a feast of exciting entertainment, creative adventure and a passionate social mission.’

Nick Clarry, Chair of The Old Vic Board, said ‘The Board of Trustees are very pleased to welcome Laura Stevenson to The Old Vic leadership team as Executive Director, working alongside Artistic Director Matthew Warchus. Looking ahead we are excited to support the whole team at The Old Vic as they continue to deliver on our plans across the three pillars of creative, education and community.’