National Theatre appoints new deputy artistic director

The National Theatre’s incoming director and co-chief executive Indhu Rubasingham will be joined by Robert Hastie as deputy artistic director, it has been announced.

Hastie, who will take up the post in January 2025, has been artistic director of Sheffield Theatres for eight years, where he’s overseen hits including Everybody’s Talking About Jamie, Life of Pi and Standing at the Sky’s Edge. His directing credits include Operation Mincemeat, currently playing at the Fortune Theatre.

Rubasingham said: “I am delighted to welcome Robert Hastie as deputy artistic director. Having been artistic director of Sheffield Theatres for eight years producing popular work of exceptional quality, coupled with his commitment to develop emerging talent, Robert will be an asset to the NT when he joins next year.”

The National has also announced that Damon Buffini has agreed to extend his term as chair until mid-2027, and that philanthropist Marit Mohn has joined the board.

Buffini said: “I am delighted to welcome Marit to join the board of trustees. Her belief in ensuring young people have access to opportunities they otherwise would not have had, through education and performing arts, sits at the core of the National Theatre’s mission.”

Sign up to our newsletter for more