December 18, 2013

NEW SILO THEATRE ARTISTIC DIRECTOR SIGNALS BOLD NEW DIRECTION 

The Silo Theatre Trust Board is thrilled to announce the appointment of acclaimed New Zealand actor and director Sophie Roberts as its new Artistic Director. 

Roberts will bring an exciting and fresh voice and vision to one of the country’s most dynamic and cutting-edge theatre companies. She will work alongside Executive Director Jessica Smith and a small full-time team to create and deliver a new dramatic programme that will enhance Silo’s reputation as the preeminent theatre for contemporary dramatic story-telling.

“Sophie was far and away the best candidate for the role of Artistic Director,” commented Trust Chairman Rick Carlyon. “She is young but her experience and track record mark her out as a stellar talent – and one that is primed and ready to take up one of the most important roles in New Zealand theatre.”

Roberts has already directed Midsummer, The Pride and I Love You Bro for Silo, as well as boasting extensive directing, producing and acting credits at Basement, Bats, Q Loft and Downstage theatres, among others.

“Sophie is a real dynamic character,” said Carlyon, “with a strong vision of where to take Silo in the future – and you can feel the heat of her passion for theatre. The board was unanimous in its decision and we’re all very excited about the bold new direction she will forge for Silo.”

Carlyon also paid tribute to Roberts’ predecessor, Shane Bosher, who will present his last Silo production, Tony Kushner’s Angels in America, from 21 March, 2014.

“Shane has built, over 13 years, the most exciting and ground-breaking theatre company in the country,” he said. “His vision and commitment has been characterised by an intrepid pursuit of the truth of the new and a courageous determination to break new ground, even at the risk of controversy.”

Roberts said she was both humbled and elevated by the appointment.

“Silo’s history is one of urgent, fearless and heart-felt storytelling – I am thrilled to be the next Artistic Director for what I believe to be the leader of contemporary theatre in this country.”

“Shane is leaving some pretty epic shoes to fill but his legacy of artistic excellence, generosity of spirit, bold and heartfelt work is so present in every aspect of the company that I feel immensely supported stepping into this role.” she said.

“I’m determined to forge my own path and I’m so excited about the future direction of the company. At Silo we are blessed with a theatre-literate audience, people with questioning minds who expect the company to take risks and ask important questions, not only about New Zealand but the world we live in.”

“I hope that through my leadership Silo can continue to evolve in response to the cultural climate. I am looking forward to pushing the possibilities of storytelling into the future with Silo.”

Roberts will take up the role of Artistic Director on 1 April.