Cate Blanchett and James Graham Join National Theatre Board
National Theatre Welcomes Acclaimed Artists and Industry Leaders
The National Theatre has announced the appointment of Cate Blanchett, James Graham, and Sarah Wiggins to its Board of Trustees, marking a pivotal moment as the institution enters a new phase of leadership and artistic direction.
These appointments coincide with the National Theatre’s preparations for an exciting transitional period, with Indhu Rubasingham and Kate Varah set to take on leadership roles as co-chief executives in spring 2025.
Cate Blanchett joins the board at the National Theatre in 2025
Cate Blanchett joins the National Theatre’s Board
Oscar-winning actor and producer Cate Blanchett brings a wealth of theatre expertise to the board. As co-artistic director and co-CEO of Sydney Theatre Company (2008–2013), Blanchett spearheaded productions that gained international acclaim, including The Maids, Uncle Vanya, and The Secret River—the latter staged at the National Theatre in 2019.
Blanchett’s acting credits at the National Theatre include her riveting 2019 performance in Martin Crimp’s When We Have Sufficiently Tortured Each Other. Her commitment to fostering global connections within theatre will be invaluable to the National's ongoing mission.
Playwright and screenwriter James Graham joins the board following his numerous successes on stage and screen. His play Dear England premiered at the National Theatre in 2023 and went on to a successful West End transfer. Graham’s This House was another standout production at the National, later revived in the West End.
Graham’s contributions to television include critically acclaimed series such as Sherwood and Quiz. A refreshed version of Dear England is slated to return to the National Theatre in 2024, reaffirming his strong ties to the organisation.
Sarah Wiggins, currently vice chair within global banking at HSBC, brings a strong background in corporate strategy and advocacy for diversity and inclusion. Her expertise in high-profile mergers and acquisitions, combined with her commitment to advancing equity, will provide vital insights to the board as it navigates future challenges and opportunities.
These appointments follow the departure of trustees Sabine Chalmers and Vicki Mortimer, and come at a significant juncture for the National Theatre. With new leadership under Indhu Rubasingham and Kate Varah, the institution is poised for a transformative period, focusing on inclusivity, innovation, and artistic excellence.
The addition of Blanchett, Graham, and Wiggins reinforces the National Theatre’s dedication to blending world-class artistry with dynamic, forward-thinking leadership. Their combined experience in the creative and corporate worlds is set to help steer the organisation into an exciting new chapter.
