Tom Wright is new Leeds Playhouse director

New Leeds Playhouse artistic director, Tom Wright

Writer, director, producer and dramaturg Tom Wright is the new artistic director of Leeds Playhouse. Currently associate artistic director at Kiln Theatre, London, he will take up his new role in June, succeeding artistic director, James Brining, who leaves after thirteen years at the helm.

Originally from Coventry, Wright has a track record of developing new and innovative work with some of the UK’s most dynamic theatre artists both at Kiln and London's Old Vic, where he was head of artist development. His latest play, Please Please Me, will premiere at Kiln Theatre next year.

A deep connection with his hometown of Coventry saw him premiere I Ain’t Dumb at the Belgrade Theatre as part of the UK City of Culture celebrations and launch an LGBTQ+ youth theatre.

In Leeds he will be working closely with newly promoted chief executive Shawab Iqbal to form the executive leadership team.

Tom said: “I’m overjoyed to be joining Leeds Playhouse - a theatre that pulses with creativity, ambition, and a deep commitment to its community. The Playhouse has long been a beacon of powerful storytelling, inclusivity and artistic innovation, and I’m honoured to build on the incredible work of James and the team, alongside Shawab, a passionate and forward-thinking leader."

Shawab Iqbal said: “Tom’s appointment is hugely energising. He has an impressive track record of developing dynamic work with some of today’s most exciting artists, with genuine inclusion always underpinning his practice, both at The Old Vic and Kiln Theatre. This, along with his nuanced understanding of regional theatre, will allow him to build on the longstanding values of the Playhouse as it enters its 55th year."

Tom’s plays include My Dad’s Gap Year (Park Theatre), Undetectable (King’s Head Theatre), and Very Special Guest Star (Omnibus Theatre). Recent productions as a director include Dumbledore Is So Gay (Southwark Playhouse and Vault Festival, Origins Award Winner); Blowhole (Soho Theatre and Pleasance Theatre) and Tumble Tuck (King’s Head Theatre and Underbelly Edinburgh). His award-winning debut short film Stockholm premiered at BFI Flare: London LGBTQ+ Film Festival, gaining international recognition and winning Best Cinematography at the LA LGBTQ+ Festival. His second short film Kweenship was followed by a commission from Sky Arts to make his third short film, Sent To Cov.

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