John Richardson Steps Down as The Old Vic's Producer

Matthew Warchus, Artistic Director of the Old Vic, has announced that John Richardson is to step down as Producer at the end of the month. He will maintain active connections with the Old Vic in a freelance role, working particularly on developing musicals with Warchus alongside other projects.

John Richardson joined the Old Vic in 2006 as its Producer under Kevin Spacey's tenure as Artistic Director. During this time he has produced over 40 shows, culminating in Maria Friedman's production of High Society, which closes its run at the end of August.

Matthew Warchus said: "John has been a crucial part of the Old Vic's recent history and Kevin's term as Artistic Director. Over the past year, I have really valued his shrewd judgement, his wealth of experience and his rare and sensitive understanding of the creative process. Over recent weeks, John and I have discussed at length what the ideal next stage for him might be, and this new plan is the happy result."

In further announcements today, Georgia Gatti has been appointed Creative Producer at the Old Vic, working alongside Tara Wilkinson who continues as General Manager but with increased responsibilities. Together the pair will lead the Old Vic production team under Matthew Warchus. Gatti joins from Playful Productions where she was a founding member. Recent productions she's worked on include WOLF HALL and BRING UP THE BODIES (West End and Broadway), the Donmar production of THE WEIR (West End), THE AUDIENCE (West End and Broadway) and AMERICAN BUFFALO (West End).

Warchus also announced Kate Varah, currently Chief Operating Officer of the Old Vic, will become Executive Director and take on broader responsibilities as part of the Executive Team, which also includes Vivien Wallace, Executive Director of Development and Conor Marren, Finance Director.

"I am delighted to confirm these changes and to have assembled an incredibly strong team and structure to deliver our ambitious plans for coming seasons. I am grateful to John for all he has done to support my transition as Artistic Director this past year and am delighted he will remain a part of the family. Kate Varah has done a sterling job as COO and I am very happy to welcome her into this new role as Executive Director. And in Georgia and Tara we have a brilliant team to lead our productions as we head into my first season."