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The Shaftesbury Theatre Announce the Appointment of their new Chief Executive

July 2024

The Shaftesbury Theatre is pleased to announce the appointment of Eleanor Lang, currently the Executive Director of Theatre Royal Stratford East, as their new Chief Executive. She will be succeeding James Williams, who has successfully led the Theatre for over 20 years.

Image credit: ©EllieKurttz

Eleanor Lang is set to take over her new role in November of this year. During this transition period, James will continue to collaborate closely with Eleanor, offering his expertise and support in an advisory capacity.

As the largest independent theatre in the West End, the Shaftesbury Theatre takes pride in being distinctive, open and original. Since 1911, the Shaftesbury Theatre has consistently championed unheard voices whilst presenting bold and adventurous productions.

A key part of London’s rich architectural splendour, The Shaftesbury Theatre’s auditorium not only holds enthralling productions but it can also be used for film shoots, conferences, and one-off theatre shows. Other spaces within the theatre are also available for daytime use, including castings, offsite days, seminars and workshops, product launches, or meetings.

Image credit: ©EllieKurttz

Eleanor commented “I am absolutely thrilled to have been chosen to lead the largest independent theatre in the West End. I am excited to begin working with the brilliant team at the Shaftesbury Theatre. I am delighted to have the continued support of James Williams, who has worked tirelessly for the company for the past 2 decades, making the Shaftesbury Theatre fit for the next century, and I hope to build on his considerable legacy.”

James confirmed “Eleanor is the perfect person to lead The Shaftesbury Theatre.  She has experience of leading companies like the Theatre Royal Stratford East and Cheek by Jowl, and will take on what I believe Is the most distinctive and original theatre in the West End.  I depart knowing that Eleanor will continue to get the unparalleled support that I have received from Donald Taffner Jr, as she takes on the Company and Theatre which has been such a massive part of my life over the past 20 years.”

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