Royal Academy of Dramatic Art Founded by Sir Herbert Beerbohm Tree in 1904 Founding affiliate of the Conservatoire for Dance & Drama in 2001

The Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA) is pleased to announce that Council has accepted its Nominations Committee's unanimous and enthusiastic recommendation to appoint Jeremy Newton to be Managing Director.

Jeremy's experience will be of enormous benefit as RADA implements its exciting plans for its second century. He has worked at senior level in the arts for 25 years, at Eastern Arts, Arts Council of England, NESTA, and the Louise T Blouin Foundation.

RADA will appoint an Artistic Director to work alongside Jeremy Newton in developing the Academy's creative strategy and very successful educational activities - two and three year courses for actors and technicians, the new (from 2007) Foundation Course, and the wide range of short courses.

Jeremy Newton will join RADA on May 1st , working with Nicholas Barter, RADA Principal since 1993. Nicholas Barter will stand down as Principal at the end of the summer term 2007, when Jeremy will assume responsibility for leading RADA with the Artistic Director.

Nicholas Barter has led RADA with distinction through major changes including the move into Higher Education with the founding of the Conservatoire for Dance and Drama and RADA's centenary project culminating in the outstanding new theatres and facilities at Gower Street/Malet Street.

RADA President Lord (Richard) Attenborough says: "I am utterly delighted at the appointment of Jeremy Newton. I have worked with him on a number of occasions and can think of no one better to lead RADA into the 21st century. It is, of course, essential that we engage an Artistic Director to work alongside Jeremy. I am certain that these two appointments will enable us to face the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead for The Academy."

RADA Chairman Sir Stephen Waley-Cohen says: "We are very pleased, indeed excited, to be
making this appointment. I look forward to working closely with Jeremy and the Artistic Director
when appointed."

Jeremy Newton says: "I am honoured to be given the opportunity of helping to cement RADA's reputation as the leading drama college in the world. At no time in the Academy's 100 year history has it been more important than now to make an uncompromising stand for excellence, accessibility
and creativity."

Further enquiries to: Rebecca Cadigan at RADA 020 7908 4788