National Theatre Appoints Alastair Coomer CDG As Head Of Casting

National Theatre appoints Alastair Coomer CDG as Head of Casting The National Theatre has appointed Alastair Coomer CDG as its new Head of Casting. Previously Casting Director at The Donmar Warehouse, Alastair has cast a diverse range of productions at the Donmar including: The Weir, Coriolanus, My Night with Reg, Privacy, City of Angels, The Vote, Les Liaisons Dangereuses, Faith Healer, St Joan, Limehouse and Belleville.

Alastair will replace Wendy Spon, the National Theatre's current Head of Casting, who is leaving the National Theatre in March to pursue a freelance casting career. Wendy has held the Head of Casting post at the National Theatre since 2006 in which time she has cast shows including: Rufus Norris' award-winning London Road, Follies, The Amen Corner, Barber Shop Chronicles and most recently Network with Bryan Cranston.

Speaking about Alastair's appointment Rufus Norris, director of the National Theatre said, "I am delighted that Alastair will be returning to the National Theatre, bringing with him a wealth of experience from his time at The Donmar Warehouse to head up the casting team following Wendy's departure in March. Wendy's casting legacy at the NT is momentous, it has been a privilege to work alongside her and we will miss her huge talent immensely."

Alastair Coomer said: "After 5 exciting and inspiring years working with Josie Rourke and Kate Pakenham at The Donmar Warehouse, I am thrilled to return to the National Theatre, where I began my career in casting. I look forward to continuing Wendy's outstanding work finding the next generation of great actors for the National's three stages."

Wendy Spon said: "The NT is a wonderful place to be a casting director and after 12 fantastic years heading up the casting department it's time for me to pursue a career change. Welcoming Alastair back is wonderful, knowing with confidence that he will lead the team on to great things."

Alastair is currently co-chair of the Casting Directors Guild and has worked extensively on productions in the West End, for London fringe venues, and various regional and touring theatre companies.