Leeds born James Brining has been appointed as the new Artistic Director of West Yorkshire Playhouse following Ian Brown’s decision to step down after 10 years at the helm.
The Playhouse say they are thrilled to have appointed one of the UK’s leading artistic voices, who has had a hugely successful run as Artistic Director and Chief Executive of Dundee Rep.
Brining brings with him a wealth of experience as a stage director, and in running a successful regional venue that has really made its mark on the national stage.
Under his leadership Dundee Rep has been recognised as one of Scotland’s foremost theatres and cultural hubs, being home not only to one of the few ensemble companies in the UK (Dundee Rep Ensemble), but also to Scottish Dance Theatre and Rep Creative Learning.
“I am hugely excited by the opportunity to return home and lead this great theatre into a new era,” says James Brining.
“I look forward to bringing the many strands of my experience together at one of Britain’s leading cultural organisations and to working on both Playhouse stages, as well as providing platforms for other artists to make extraordinary work.”
During Brining’s tenure Dundee Rep has won and been nominated for more TMA and Critics Awards in Scotland than any other Scottish theatre. The Company has gained a national and international reputation, touring work across the world to countries as diverse as Iran, Mexico and Japan, as well as throughout the UK.
As a director Brining has created premiere productions of newly commissioned plays by leading Scottish writers such as David Greig and Stephen Greenhorn, as well as presenting reinterpretations of contemporary drama and revivals of classic plays.
His productions of Sunshine On Leith and Sweeney Todd won TMA Best Musical in 2007 and 2010 respectively and he is currently working on the first major revival of Zinnie Harris’ acclaimed drama Further Than The Furthest Thing.
Brining was appointed ahead of strong competition and says he has a very clear vision for his directorship of this regional powerhouse which will begin in late summer 2012.
“I want to develop a culture of creativity and excellence, building partnerships at home and throughout the UK as well as overseas. Theatre is a vital element of our cultural and social fabric.
“I aim to ensure that West Yorkshire Playhouse is a place where people have life-enriching and transformative experiences. It’s our job to throw open the doors and welcome people to the Playhouse with unforgettable, world-class work.”