ROYAL Shakespeare Company artistic director Gregory Doran has stepped down after ten years at the helm.
He has been with the company for 35 years and will remain as artistic director emeritus until the end of 2023.
In that role, Greg will lead specific projects and direct a production in the Royal Shakespeare Theatre as part of the Shakespeare’s First Folio celebrations next year – his 50th production for the RSC.
He will also deliver ongoing training for artists on Shakespeare’s verse throughout the year.
The company’s for a new artistic director bis underway. Erica Whyman, who has been acting artistic director since September 2021, will continue in the role during the search.
Greg took over as artistic director in 2012 and his first production in the post was the following year when he reunited with David Tennant, directing him in the title role of Richard II. The acclaimed production transferred to the Barbican Theatre, London and was the first RSC production to be seen live in cinemas around the world.
Greg has led the RSC through the journey of Shakespeare’s canon during his decade as artistic director with a programme celebrating the diversity of talent in the UK.
As well as being performed live on stage, the productions have been screened in cinemas worldwide and shared free with schools across the UK with extensive accompanying educational resources.
In 2012 Greg received the Sam Wanamaker Award from Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre, an annual award recognising and celebrating work which has increased the understanding and enjoyment of Shakespeare.
He also delivered the 2016 Richard Dimbleby Lecture, which was broadcast in March 2016 to coincide with the 400th anniversary of Shakespeare’s death.
Greg also led the company through the Covid-19 pandemic alongside executive director, Catherine Mallyon.
Work during the time the theatres were closed included co-directing the streamed open rehearsal project of Henry VI Part One, plus in-conversation streamed events for Talking Shakespeare.
Greg recently returned to the RSC after taking a period of compassionate leave to care for his terminally-ill husband, the celebrated actor Sir Antony Sher, who died in December.
Speaking about his decision Greg said: “It has been a real privilege to be a part of the amazing team leading this great company for this last decade of challenge and achievement. And to work through the entire canon of plays in Shakespeare’s First Folio in time for its 400th anniversary next year.
“We have made many strides in making our theatre more inclusive, accessible, diverse and accountable, but there is always more to do, and I wish whoever succeeds me joy in continuing that work. I am honoured to have been granted the title of artistic director emeritus until the end of 2023.”
