Press Contact: Natalie Thomas
natalie.thomas@theatreroyal.com
4 January 2024
National newspaper, The Stage, has revealed its annual Top 100 list of the most influential individuals in UK theatre, with Theatre Royal Plymouth’s Chief Executive and Executive Producer, James Mackenzie-Blackman, securing a coveted place in the annual list.
Since taking on the role in January 2022, James has initiated a significant period of independent industry consultation ultimately leading TRP on a journey of continued creative renewal and growth.
Unafraid to veer away from conventions, and following the recommendations from extensive consultation, James has transitioned TRP away from the traditional artistic director leadership model and instead introduced a group-led creative and producing team.
New additions to join TRP’s leadership team under James’ tenure include Dame Darcey Bussell DBE as Chair of the Board; Liz King as Executive Director, Producing and Programming; James Greenacre as Director of External Affairs; alongside four Associate Directors: Tom Jackson Greaves, John Haidar, Malaika Kegode and Sara Rhodes.
2024 will see TRP launch two brand new co-produced musicals, The Artist and Elton John’s The Devil Wears Prada as well as an inaugural season of work from TRP’s new Associate Directors.
James said: “It is humbling to be included in such a prestigious list of notable colleagues within the industry, but this honour is thanks to all our team at Theatre Royal Plymouth, rather than any one individual. This accolade is for all of us and recognises the hard work and innovative action we are taking to evolve TRP for the future. I want to celebrate our team, all the freelance artists we work with, and our audiences for helping to raise the profile of all we are doing at TRP.”
The Stage releases its celebratory Top 100 list every January and this year’s top spot went to the team running the National Theatre.
Keep up to date with all Theatre Royal Plymouth latest news here theatreroyal.com/press.