The Stage

War Horse's Morris appointed artistic director of Bristol Old Vic

Published Wednesday 25 February 2009 at 11:30 by Alistair Smith

War Horse co-director Tom Morris has been appointed as the new artistic director of Bristol Old Vic.

He will be joined by Emma Stenning as executive director. The pair previously worked together at the Battersea Arts Centre, where they held the same positions. They will take over their new roles in Bristol in September when they have fulfilled commitments to their current posts.

Stenning is now serving as head of producing at the Manchester International Festival, while Morris is an associate at the National Theatre and is soon to oversee the transfer of War Horse to the West End.

Local councillor Simon Cook, chair of the selection panel for the post, said: "The interest in these two posts has been huge. The selection process has been very thorough and we are delighted to have attracted such high calibre people to lead BOV."

Morris and Stenning will be unveiled at a public meeting at 6pm on April 16, where they will discuss their plans for the venue's future.

The pair issued a statement, saying: "We are delighted to join the Bristol Old Vic at this unique moment in its history. Bristol has the most exquisite 18th-century playhouse in the country, in an extraordinary, flexible and under-used building. Now, through the initiative of Dick Penny [BOV chair] and board, the Old Vic feels ready to re-engage with the city as it did in the brightest moments in its past. The opportunity to rediscover the potential of this globally celebrated theatre in partnership with the people of Bristol is thrilling."