Acclaimed theatre director Rupert Goold has made a startling admission about the current state of the industry, revealing that if he were graduating from university today, he would not pursue a career in theatre. The 53-year-old director, who has been at the helm of London's prestigious Almeida Theatre since 2013, offered this candid reflection as he prepares for a major career transition.
A Career of Distinction and Upcoming Transition
Goold, who has overseen more than 70 productions during his tenure at the intimate north London venue, is set to leave the Almeida later this year to take up the position of artistic director at the historic Old Vic theatre. His remarkable career trajectory has seen him evolve from a Cambridge University graduate to one of Britain's most celebrated theatre directors, with notable productions including a musical adaptation of Bret Easton Ellis's novel American Psycho in 2013 and a critically acclaimed 2023 run of Tennessee Williams's A Streetcar Named Desire starring Paul Mescal.
Honest Reflections on Industry Challenges
In a revealing interview with The Telegraph, Goold reflected on how his younger self would fare attempting to enter the theatre world in today's climate. "To be honest, I don't think I would have done it," he stated frankly. "If I was graduating now, I would have done something else." This surprising admission from such an established figure highlights the significant challenges facing new entrants to the theatrical profession.
The director also spoke openly about another high-profile position he pursued, acknowledging that he knew he wouldn't secure the role of artistic director at the National Theatre when it became available in 2023. "I knew it wasn't going to go to somebody like me," Goold revealed, though he explained he felt compelled to apply regardless. "But I thought, 'If I don't take it seriously and go through [the application] in some way, am I going to be on my deathbed and regretting it?'"
Theatre in the Age of Cultural Polarisation
Goold offered thoughtful commentary on how the theatre world has become entangled in contemporary online culture wars and debates surrounding cancel culture. "The world went mad, and theatre was part of that," he theorised. "Now, the world has got madder but I think theatre is getting saner or at least, it's trying to deal with the madness." He emphasised the fundamental importance of artistic freedom, adding unequivocally: "Freedom of speech is essential."
Looking Forward to New Beginnings
As Goold prepares for his new role at the Old Vic, his first season is due to commence next year with an expected announcement this autumn. While remaining largely discreet about his programming plans, reports suggest his inaugural season will include a production of John Milton's epic poem Paradise Lost.
Before this transition, Goold has his final season at the Almeida to complete, which promises to be a compelling conclusion to his eleven-year leadership. The season will feature:
- A revival of his successful American Psycho musical
- A new production of Henrik Ibsen's classic drama A Doll's House
- A staging of Sarah Kane's masterpiece Cleansed
These productions represent both a celebration of Goold's artistic legacy at the Almeida and a bridge to his forthcoming chapter at one of London's most iconic theatrical institutions.
