Rupert Goold to take over as the Old Vic's artistic director after a decade at Almeida

Rupert Goold is leaving the Almeida theatre after more than a decade in charge to take over at the Old Vic, ending the search for a new leader at one of the UK's biggest theatrical institutions.

- Lanre Bakare

Rumours of the move began circulating this week after the news in May that the Old Vic's current artistic director, Matthew Warchus, would step down from the role in 2026.

Goold said: "After 11 wonderful, demanding and richly rewarding years at the Almeida, I've decided to head across the river in search of a new challenge.

"It has been the privilege of my life to have led the Almeida over the past decade, but I believe it's important that our theatres are renewed through new leadership, and that in turn can and should bring new artists and ideas into this unique space," he said.

Goold will be joined by Rebecca Frecknall, who has been named associate director having held the same role at the Almeida. Goold will work alongside the executive director, Laura Stevenson, as co-chief executives.