The National Theatre has announced that actor and producer Cate Blanchett, writer James Graham, and business leader Sarah Wiggins are to join the National Theatre Board this month.
Further appointments are to be announced next year.
The announcement was made by Sir Damon Buffini, Chair of the National Theatre.
The National’s Board works to shape the National Theatre’s future, ensuring it remains a vibrant hub serving audiences across the world by producing groundbreaking work and nurturing the next generation of theatre-makers.
The current National Theatre Board members are: Sir Damon Buffini (Chair), Louise Charlton, Dame Vikki Heywood CBE, Simon Minty, Dame Marit Mohn, Dame Karen Pierce, Amanda Pritchard, Elizabeth Pryce, Melanie Richards CBE, Tim Score, Farrah Storr MBE, and Simon Warshaw.
In December, Indhu Rubasingham was confirmed as the National Theatre’s next artistic director, taking over from Rufus Norris.
Prolific playwright James Graham will see his recent Nottingham Playhouse play Punch come to the Young Vic in London next year, alongside a return of his award-winning mega-hit Dear England, once again playing at the National Theatre after a successful West End run. He has also written Almeida Theatre musical Tammy Faye, which is now playing on Broadway, and his stage adaptation of Alan Bleasdale’s Boys From the Blackstuff is back out on tour in 2025.
Hollywood star and producer Cate Blanchett served alongside Andrew Upton as co-Artistic Director and co-CEO of Sydney Theatre Company from 2008 to 2013. Cate is back on the London stage next year in The Seagull at the Barbican Theatre.
Sarah Wiggins trained as a lawyer and is currently a Vice Chair within Global Banking at HSBC.
Currently playing at the National Theatre is The Importance of Being Earnest (from 20 November), and Ballet Shoes (from 23 November).
What They Said
Chair of the Board Damon Buffini said in a statement: “We are absolutely delighted to welcome Cate, James and Sarah to the National Theatre Board. Each of them brings an extraordinary wealth of talent, experience, and vision to the National Theatre. As world-class artists Cate and James have continually pushed the boundaries of creativity and storytelling, while also being passionate advocates for the wider arts sector. Their dedication to their craft, along with their commitment to supporting emerging voices and access to the arts, will undoubtedly strengthen our mission and inspire the next generation of theatre makers.
Sarah brings with her a vast depth of legal knowledge and strategic insight that will greatly benefit the National Theatre. Her experience in advising complex organisations will be invaluable as we navigate new opportunities, alongside her commitment to fostering inclusive working. I am looking forward to working with Cate, James and Sarah hugely.’”
Cate Blanchett said: “I relish engagement with the National as both an artist and an audience member. I’ve long admired the company’s breadth and depth of programming and its commitment to education and outreach in the wider community. It’s a privilege to be on the board at this exciting transitional moment. I look forward to rolling my sleeves up in support of the dynamic duo Indhu Rubasingham and Kate Varah.”
James Graham said: “As a working artist, and a passionate believer in all that The National Theatre is, and could be, it’s a real privilege to join its board. Especially in this moment of transition. I’m also particularly honoured to be representing writers and indeed all freelancers, and I take that responsibility very seriously. I am excited, optimistic, and ambitious for the National’s next chapter.”
Sarah Wiggins said: “The National Theatre is an organisation I have long admired, and I am delighted to be joining Board at such a pivotal time in its history. I am incredibly excited to have the opportunity to play my part in shaping a future where the National Theatre will continue to inspire and engage audiences and young people from across the globe.’
Related News
The National Theatre is calling: theatre issues a public casting notice for soon-to-be announced 2027 musical
Star-studded lineup confirmed for National Youth Theatre’s 70th Anniversary show Letters to My Younger Self
Full cast announced for explosive new drama Some Woman at the National Theatre led by Anne-Marie Duff
Peek behind the curtain with Letitia Wright, Lorraine Toussaint and the cast of The Story in rehearsals
Latest News
Broadway legend Patti LuPone returns to the London Coliseum for Valentine’s Day 2027
Helen of Troy never got to tell her side. Watch the trailer for the play that does
After a sell-out world tour, The Choir of Man returns to the West End this Christmas
