U.K.-based director Simon Godwin will cross the pond to assume the title of artistic director at the Shakespeare Theatre Company in Washington, D.C. He'll officially succeed current Artistic Director Michael Kahn at the end of the 2018–2019 season.
Godwin currently serves as associate director at London's National Theatre, where he is slated to helm the upcoming production of Antony & Cleopatra starring Ralph Fiennes and Sophie Okonedo. He previously held the same title at both the Royal Court Theatre and the Bristol Old Vic. His American directing credits include the 2016 Broadway revival of The Cherry Orchard and Theatre for a New Audience's Measure for Measure.
"Simon's artistic excellence, vision, perspective, energy, and vibrancy will be essential to lead STC," said Kahn in a statement. "Backed by our wonderful staff and with the support of our incredibly astute audiences, I am certain that Simon will make an outstanding artistic director."
Executive Director Chris Jennings stated, "He has an incredible affinity for making classical work that speaks to today's audiences, and I think we are lucky to have a person of such talents coming to work in D.C."
