Robin Hawkes (above) has begun his new role as theatre director for ATG’s Manchester theatres, the Palace and Opera House.
Robin arrives after a particularly challenging time for the cultural sector and is looking forward to re-engaging audiences and wider supporters.
Attention will be on the Opera House in particular, when it hosts the UK premiere of Mrs Doubtfire The Musical in September, which follows successful pre-London premieres such as Back to The Future The Musical, &Juliet and Bat out of Hell. Robin will continue to champion both theatres as flagships for the launch of new musicals;
Robin has been a determined voice for theatres in the North, and as executive drector and joint chief executive of Leeds Playhouse for six years prior to his move over the Pennines, was instrumental in ensuring the theatre not only survived the pandemic, but also enjoyed a £16.8 million redevelopment project. Before Leeds Prior he worked at the National Theatre as director of artistic administration under Nicholas Hytner and Rufus Norris. He has also served on the boards of UK Theatre, the Transform Festival and the Ramps on the Moon company, of which he was chairman of the board.
“I'm absolutely delighted to have joined the team here in venues that are the pride of Manchester.
"I'm looking forward to an incredible programme for this year, including Disney’s Beauty and the Beast, South Pacific, The Addams Family and of course the UK premiere of Mrs Doubtfire.
“I’m also excited to lead our venues in continuing to develop our community outreach work, ensuring our theatres are more connected to communities across the city and more accessible to everyone in the coming years.”