Deborah Sawyerr Becomes New Executive Director of Theatre Royal Stratford East

Artistic Director of Theatre Royal Stratford East Kerry Michael today announces the appointment of Deborah Sawyerr as its new Executive Director, taking over from Mary Caws. Sawyerr joins Stratford East from the Bush Theatre, where she served as General Manager and will take up her new position in October.

On accepting the role of Executive Director, Sawyerr said: "I am delighted to be joining Kerry and the team at Theatre Royal Stratford East, one of the most diverse and inclusive theatres in London. The staff at Theatre Royal Stratford East are absolutely world class and include the best of new and established talent. It is such an honour to be chosen to continue the great work of Mary Caws and help build the theatre's future."

Artistic Director of Theatre Royal Stratford East Kerry Michael said today: "Deborah and I have known each other for many years as our paths have crisscrossed on various projects. I've always enjoyed working with her and I'm very much looking forward to her getting stuck in as our new executive director."

Chair of the Board, Margaret Hodge M.P., said of Sawyerr's appointment: "I am delighted that Deborah is joining the team at Theatre Royal Stratford East. Her wide experience coupled with her strong commitment to the values that underpin our work will help to enhance all that happens in this important venue."

Deborah Sawyerr is currently the General Manager at The Bush Theatre. Previously she was General Manager at the Broadway, Barking and Executive Director at Talawa Theatre Company. Prior to Talawa, she was the Production Manager at Nottingham Playhouse and Palace Theatre Watford. Predating this, Sawyerr worked as Stage Manager and Deputy Stage Manager with Theatre Royal Stratford East and a range of touring theatre companies including Graeae Theatre Company. She has also taught as Senior Stage Management Tutor on the Stage Management and Technical Theatre Diploma at the London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art and has a range of experience in Event Management on corporate and public events. She has been a board member at the Independent Theatre Council and Shape and is currently a board member at Upswing.