Producer Kenny Wax, founder of Kenny Wax Ltd., has been appointed as the new president of Society of London Theatre (SOLT), it has been announced.
His appointment comes at the conclusion of the three-year tenure of the current President, Caro Newling.
Kenny brings extensive experience to SOLT having produced plays, musicals and family theatre in the West End. His current London productions include The Play That Goes Wrong (also running on Broadway), The Comedy About A Bank Robbery and La Strada. He also has several touring productions playing up and down the UK.
Having graduated with a BA (Hons) in Business Studies, Kenny began his theatre career as an usher at the Theatre Royal Drury Lane in 1989, gaining hands on experience as a follow-spot operator, flyman, a member of the stage crew and box office clerk. He produced his first shows at the King’s Head Theatre in 1991 and in 1997 set up Kenny Wax Ltd.
His productions have won three Olivier Awards (Best New Musical for Top Hat and Once On This Island and Best New Comedy for The Play That Goes Wrong) and have received a total of seventeen nominations.
Through his company Kenny Wax Family Entertainment, he produces a number of shows for children and families which tour throughout the year, with West End runs over the summer and Christmas seasons.
Speaking about his appointment, Kenny said: “Due to the innovative work of Caro Newling, Chief Executive Julian Bird and their excellent team at Rose Street, SOLT continues to position itself at the very heart of everything progressive which is happening in Theatreland.”
“As we face new challenges and opportunities, SOLT’s work is more important than ever. It is an honour to have been asked to take on this role and to help our members safeguard our industry.”
Julian Bird, Chief Executive of SOLT, said: “We are delighted to welcome Kenny Wax as the new president of SOLT. In an ever-changing and fast-moving industry, Kenny will be a huge asset to the organisation. Having worked at every level in theatre, there is no better champion of our work.”
“SOLT would also like thank Caro Newling for her tireless work as President particularly her work and passion for training and building new audiences.”