Yorkshireman Robert takes over at Sheffield Theatres

The new man at the helm of Sheffield's Crucible and Lyceum theatres is Yorkshireman Robert Hastie, whose first acting job was on stage at the Crucible.
Robert Hastie, new artistic director at Sheffield TheatresRobert Hastie, new artistic director at Sheffield Theatres
Robert Hastie, new artistic director at Sheffield Theatres

Scarborough-born Robert has been named by Sheffield Theatres as the new artistic director, taking over from Daniel Evans.

The job is an important one as the Crucible is widely regarded as one of the country's leading theatres and the Lyceum features top touring productions.

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Robert takes up the position in July, when Daniel leaves for a prestigious appointment at Chichester Festival Theatre after six years that have seen the city's theatre reputation grow nationally.

Robert began his professional theatre career as an actor in Edward Bond’s play Lear at the Crucible in 2005.

He said today, “I am overjoyed to have been asked by the Board of Sheffield Theatres to be their next artistic director. The Crucible, the Lyceum and the Crucible Studio together constitute one of the finest theatre complexes in Britain.

"Their reputation has been strengthened under the inspired leadership of Daniel Evans and Dan Bates, as a destination for audiences from both near and far who come in search of brilliant theatre and have their hopes more than fulfilled.

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“As a Yorkshireman, I am hugely looking forward to contributing to the cultural life of this great city. My first theatre job out of RADA was onstage at the Crucible, acting in a production of Edward Bond's Lear. It’s wonderful to be returning here as artistic director to lead such an exceptional team. I could not be happier or prouder.”

Daniel Evans said: “I'm truly delighted the board has appointed Rob as the next artistic director of Sheffield Theatres. It’s a glorious organisation with a glorious team, and knowing that I am leaving the company in Rob's hands, means I know the company’s future at the forefront of UK theatre is assured.

"Sheffield has a tradition of actors turned directors at the helm – it’s a combination that I believe draws the best from people from across the company. Rob will be no exception, and I wish him every success as he begins his tenure.”

Chair of the Board Lord Bob Kerslake said: “Rob’s talent, his passion for the organisation and his vision for the company’s work made him the perfect choice for the role. I am thrilled that he has agreed to join us as we embark on our next exciting chapter.”

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Robert is currently associate director of the Donmar Warehouse, where his recent work includes acclaimed productions of My Night With Reg by Kevin Elyot (also West End – Hastie was nominated for Best Newcomer at the Evening Standard Theatre Awards; and the production was nominated for Best Revival at the Olivier Awards), and Splendour, by Abi Morgan.

As an actor, his work has included productions with the National Theatre, RSC, Chichester Festival Theatre, Glasgow Citz, Cheek by Jowl, Frantic Assembly, Northampton Royal & Derngate, Headlong, Birmingham Rep, West Yorkshire Playhouse, Lyric Hammersmith, Derby Playhouse, Playful Productions and Liverpool Playhouse.