Theatre News

Emma Rice appointed new artistic director of Shakespeare's Globe

Rice, known for her award-winning work with Kneehigh, succeeds Dominic Dromgoole next Spring

Emma Rice
Emma Rice

Emma Rice will succeed Dominic Dromgoole as artistic director of Shakespeare's Globe next year.

Rice, who is currently joint artistic director of Cornwall's acclaimed Kneehigh theatre company, will take over when Dromgoole steps down in April 2016.

"I am delighted and honoured to be taking over the artistic direction of Shakespeare's Globe," Rice said. "Open to the elements, and to its audience, this unique and important space demands theatre that brims with passion, joy and humanity."

Dromgoole responded: "This is an excellent appointment, in keeping with the Globe’s traditions of boldness and adventure. Over many years, Emma has created at Kneehigh a body of work that shares the same principles of imagination, populism, wit and passion that have always been central to the Globe."

Shakespeare's Globe
Shakespeare's Globe

Emma Rice has worked with Kneehigh since 1994, initially as a performer. Her productions for the company include The Red Shoes, Brief Encounter and A Matter of Life and Death. Most recently she adapted and directed Rebecca, which is currently on a UK tour.

On joining the Globe, which comprises the iconic outdoor theatre and new candlelit Sam Wanamaker Playhouse, she added: "Mindful of the extraordinary artists I follow, I will take custody of this incredible organisation with an open heart, fierce passion and excited mind."

The Globe receives no regular subsidy and has an annual turnover of over £20million. According to its latest annual review, it accounted for a 10% share of total London play-going in 2014.

Of Rice's appointment, chief executive Neil Constable said: "Her spirit and energy, her love of Shakespeare and her wholehearted and passionate response to the Globe’s architecture and audiences make her a worthy candidate in what has been a widely sought-after role."