The Stage

Mackintosh follows Dench as president of RSAMD

Published Tuesday 4 May 2004 at 12:25 by Ruth Gillespie

Cameron Mackintosh will succeed Judi Dench as president of the Royal Scottish Academy of Music and Drama, the Glasgow-based performing arts college has announced.

Earlier this year the academy launched a new master’s degree in musical theatre and independent funding body the Cameron Mackintosh Foundation has agreed to provide scholarships for up to three students on the course each year.

“I am delighted to become president of the academy even though I will have the unenviable task of following the great Dame Judi,” said Mackintosh, who will hold the post for five years. “The RSAMD for a long time has been at the forefront of excellence in training for music and drama but I am particularly pleased to strengthen my association at this juncture when the academy is broadening its remit to include writing and performance of musical theatre.

“At a time when more and more young people are drawn to the performing arts, this far reaching and innovative scheme will undoubtedly prove a tremendous catalyst for Scottish talent.”

Mackintosh, who currently owns seven West End theatres, announced in July that he would spend £35 million on improving his venues.

Principal of the RSAMD John Wallace said: “The academy is greatly honoured to have Cameron Mackintosh as president and we look forward to having a long and happy association with him.”