Society of London Theatre (SOLT), the not-for-profit organization representing the London theatre industry, has announced that Kenny Wax has been appointed as its new president.
The appointment of Wax comes at the conclusion of the three-year tenure of current president, Caro Newling.
Wax, whose current London productions include The Play That Goes Wrong (also running on Broadway), The Comedy About A Bank Robbery, and La Strada, began his theatre career as an usher at the Theatre Royal Drury Lane in 1989, gaining experience as a follow-spot operator, flyman, a member of the stage crew, and box-office clerk. He produced his first shows at the King’s Head Theatre in 1991 and in 1997 set up Kenny Wax Ltd.
His productions have won three Olivier Awards and received a total of 17 nominations. Through his company Kenny Wax Family Entertainment, he produces a number of shows for children and families, which tour throughout the year with West End runs over the summer and Christmas seasons.
In a statement Wax said, “Due to the innovative work of Caro Newling, Chief Executive Julian Bird and their excellent team at Rose Street, SOLT continues to position itself at the very heart of everything progressive which is happening in Theatreland. As we face new challenges and opportunities, SOLT’s work is more important than ever. It is an honour to have been asked to take on this role and to help our members safeguard our industry.”
Julian Bird, chief executive of SOLT, added,
“We are delighted to welcome Kenny Wax as the new president of SOLT. In an ever-changing and fast-moving industry, Kenny will be a huge asset to the organisation. Having worked at every level in theatre, there is no better champion of our work. SOLT would also like thank Caro Newling for her tireless work as President particularly her work and passion for training and building new audiences.”
SOLT produces the Olivier Awards and West End LIVE and runs audience development initiatives.
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