George Stiles, Anthony Drewe and Rosalie Craig among new Watermill Associate Artists

George Stiles, Anthony Drewe, Rosalie Craig, Johnny Flynn and Tom Attenborough have been announced as new associate artists for The Watermill Theatre.

The theatre, which celebrates its 50th Anniversary in 2017, will work with the associate artists to shape the theatre's future work and artistic ambition.

Paul Hart, the Watermill's artistic and executive Director, commented: "I’m absolutely thrilled to be welcoming our five new associates to the team, each of whom bring such a broad range of expertise and talents. Our associate artists all have a special connection with The Watermill and as we approach our milestone 50th anniversary next year, it’s really exciting to have them on board as we develop the work of the theatre in the coming years."

Stiles and Drewe, whose first professional musical was staged as a co-production between The Watermill and Cameron Mackintosh, said: "We were delighted and honoured to be invited to become associate artists of The Watermill. It was our introduction to this enchanting venue and over the ensuing years we returned to Bagnor again and again. We were instantly taken by Paul Hart's enthusiasm, both for the magical venue and for nurturing new musical theatre productions.

Paul recently helped us select a winning musical for the inaugural Stiles and Drewe Mentorship Award, and we very much hope that, having reconnected with The Watermill, we will soon be returning to this little gem of a theatre in whatever capacity Paul would like – even selling ice creams in the interval!"

Hart, who took over as artistic director and chief executive from Hedda Beeby, who stepped down after eight years in the role, will close his first season at the theatre with a production of Watership Down.