Toronto's Soulpepper has named Emma Stenning, the current chief executive of Bristol Old Vic, as the company’s new executive director. The appointment follows the dual departure of Executive Director Leslie Lester and former Artistic Director Albert Schultz, as four women filed civil suits against him and the theatre company while detailing a history of sexual assault allegations.
Stenning has been at the helm of Bristol Old Vic, in partnership with Artistic Director Tom Morris, for the past nine years. Previously, she was head of producing at Manchester International Festival, head of theatre for the London region of Arts Council England, a cultural program advisor for the 2012 Olympic Games, and executive director at Battersea Arts Centre.
“Soulpepper is a world class theatre company—one that sits at the heart of a vibrant, creative city; I feel both thrilled and privileged to be joining the exceptional team here as the organization starts to shape its next chapter, and excited beyond belief to be making Toronto my home” says Stenning in a statement. “It’s been wonderful to spend some time at the Young Centre, beginning to get to know the community of staff, artists, and supporters who, collectively, make up Soulpepper. I feel welcomed, inspired and energized, and I can’t wait to get started.”
In light of the allegations earlier this year, Soulpepper named Alan Dilworth acting artistic director—a role he continues to occupy. For more information on the Canadian company, visit SoulPepper.ca.
