Cate Blanchett by Renato Campora; James Graham by Johan Persson; Sarah Wiggins

Cate Blanchett, James Graham and Sarah Wiggins are to join the National Theatre's board this month

Photo: Renato Campora and Johan Persson

Changing Faces

Cate Blanchett among new National Theatre trustees

Arts Professional
2 min read

CATE BLANCHETT, JAMES GRAHAM and SARAH WIGGINS are to join the National Theatre Board this month, with further appointments to be announced next year, the theatre’s chair, Sir DAMON BUFFINI, has announced.

The trio join the board ahead of a change in leadership as INDHU RUBASINGHAM prepares to take the rein as artistic director and co-CEO in Spring 2025.

Legal general counsel SABINE CHALMERS and freelance designer VICKI MORTIMER, who joined the National Theatre Board in 2017 and 2019, respectively, have stepped down as NT Trustees.

An actor, producer and co-founder of Dirty Films, Blanchett has worked across stage and screen and was previously co-artistic director and co-CEO of Sydney Theatre Company from 2008 to 2013.

Playwright and screenwriter Graham’s work includes the National Theatre production of Dear England, which later transferred to the West End, and This House, which also premiered at the Southbank venue.

Trained as a lawyer, Wiggins is currently a vice-chair within Global Banking at HSBC. She was a partner at law firm Linklaters for more than 20 years, a mentor for Next Generation women on the FTSE 100 Cross-Company Mentoring Programme and a member of the Advisory Council to the Prince of Wales’ Step Up to Serve campaign between 2014 and 2016.

Speaking about the appointments, chair of the board DAMON BUFFINI said, “As world-class artists, Cate and James have continually pushed the boundaries of creativity and storytelling while also being passionate advocates for the wider arts sector.

“Their dedication to their craft, along with their commitment to supporting emerging voices and access to the arts, will undoubtedly strengthen our mission and inspire the next generation of theatre makers.

“Sarah brings with her a vast depth of legal knowledge and strategic insight that will greatly benefit the National Theatre. Her experience in advising complex organisations will be invaluable as we navigate new opportunities, alongside her commitment to fostering inclusive working.”