The Young Vic, one of London’s most innovative and community-focused theatres, has just made a power move. Lucy Pattison, a seasoned theatre producer with an enviable track record, has been announced as the new Executive Director, effective immediately. With this appointment, the Young Vic promises an exciting future that blends its commitment to world-class productions with a drive for accessibility, artist development, and community engagement.
A Familiar Face with a Fresh Vision
Lucy Pattison is no stranger to the Young Vic. Previously, she served as Lead Producer on acclaimed productions like Fairview, Blood Wedding, and the West End-transferring Death of a Salesman. Her return marks a pivotal moment for the theatre, as she steps into a leadership role alongside Artistic Director and Chief Executive, Nadia Fall. Lucy’s excitement is palpable:
“I couldn’t be more excited to be appointed the Executive Director of the Young Vic; a theatre with an amazing history which plays an important role within its community. I’ve loved the theatre since I was a student and so to be invited to play a part in the next act of its story is an honour and a privilege.”
Her past work speaks volumes about her ability to elevate productions and bring diverse stories to life. Having admired Nadia Fall’s transformative work at Stratford East, Lucy looks forward to collaborating with her to shape the next chapter of the Young Vic’s legacy.
A Career Steeped in Creativity
Lucy’s credentials read like a dream résumé for any theatre enthusiast. With over 15 years of experience, she has worked across both subsidised and commercial sectors, producing hit after hit. Starting her career at the Almeida Theatre, Lucy contributed to iconic productions such as The Oresteia, Hamlet, Summer and Smoke, and Ink. Her producing chops were further honed during her time at Elliott & Harper Productions, where she worked on Sondheim’s Company, Cock by Mike Bartlett, and the enchanting The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe.
Her collaborative work with renowned directors like Robert Icke, Rebecca Frecknall, and Marianne Elliott has not only enriched her expertise but also cemented her as a force in the theatre world. From West End triumphs to Broadway transfers, Lucy’s career is a testament to her knack for blending artistic integrity with commercial success.
The Young Vic’s Bold Future
Under Lucy’s leadership, the Young Vic aims to uphold its reputation as a hub of creativity and inclusivity. With Nadia Fall at the artistic helm, the theatre is poised to push boundaries and foster new talent. Glenn Earle, Chair of the Board, shares his optimism:
“We have great plans for our work on and off our stages and in our community, and I very much look forward to working with Nadia and Lucy to realise our ambitions.”
Lucy’s track record aligns seamlessly with the Young Vic’s ethos. Her ability to champion bold, socially relevant productions makes her the ideal candidate to lead the theatre into a dynamic new era.
From Backstage to the Classroom
Beyond her producing accolades, Lucy has contributed to the theatre world through education and advocacy. She is a guest lecturer for RADA/Birkbeck’s MA in Text and Performance and serves as a reader for the prestigious Susan Smith Blackburn Prize. Her commitment to nurturing the next generation of theatre-makers ensures that her influence extends beyond the stage.
Why This Matters for London Theatre
Lucy’s appointment is more than a leadership change; it’s a statement about the Young Vic’s commitment to innovation. The theatre, known for its groundbreaking productions and dedication to community, has consistently championed new voices and bold stories. With Lucy Pattison on board, expect even more daring productions that reflect London’s diverse and dynamic culture.
A Toast to the Next Chapter
Lucy succeeds Sarah Nicholson, who has served as interim Executive Director since December 2024. Her appointment marks a new chapter for the Young Vic, filled with promise, creativity, and an unwavering dedication to the arts.
London’s theatre scene just got a whole lot more exciting. With Lucy Pattison at the Young Vic’s helm, the city can look forward to productions that challenge, inspire, and resonate with audiences far and wide.
