Ben Kidd makes his Young Vic directorial debut

Tuesday, 4 December 2012

Ben Kidd, recipient of the first Genesis Future Directors Award, makes his Young Vic directorial debut with a new production of The Shawl, a taut, suspenseful drama by American playwright David Mamet which runs from 5 to 15 December.

In June 2012 Ben was chosen as the first recipient of the Genesis Future Directors Award, a major new award established by the Genesis Foundation as part of its longstanding partnership with the Young Vic. It was created to nurture emerging young directors by providing them with an opportunity to explore and develop their craft as they create their first fully resourced production at the theatre.

Ben is being mentored by Genesis Fellow Carrie Cracknell as he works on the sold-out play.

Ben says:

“I am thrilled to have the opportunity to work on this wonderful, little seen play, which I absolutely love. Genesis is interested in promoting genuine artistic development, not just professional development, which I find very exciting. The Young Vic has always been a unique and invaluable hub for me and so many other directors. So many shows I have seen at the Young Vic rank among the truly inspirational. The Genesis Foundation’s links with the building have helped to foster that, and I am thrilled to be able to join that conversation.”

Ben recently directed Anne and Zef at Salisbury Playhouse as recipient of the Young Angels Theatre Makers Award. His previous credits include Richard III (Riverside Studios and UK tour), Apart From George (Finborough), and Kin (Brighton Fringe and UK tour). He has also worked as Assistant Director on the West End production of Laura Wade’s Posh, as well as productions at the National Theatre and The Globe.

To find out more about The Shawl, visit www.youngvic.org.

Read more about the Genesis Foundation’s partnership with the Young Vic here.