Hackney Empire makes changes to senior leadership

KEITH KHAN has been appointed Creative Director of Hackney Empire as part of a revamp of the theatre's senior leadership team.

A multidisciplinary artist, Khan will succeed the current Artistic Director and joint Chief Executive, YAMIN CHOUDURY, who will depart in September. Executive Director JO HEMMANT will become sole CEO.  

Khan co-founded the arts organisation Motiroti in the nineties before leaving in 2004 to become CEO of the Rich Mix Cultural Foundation. He has worked as a creative director and lead artist on commissions, including The Queen's Jubilee Commonwealth celebration, and was Head of Culture for the London Olympic and Paralympic Games.

As a designer, Khan has worked on productions at Sadler’s Wells, Opera North and Welsh National Opera, as well as Carnival in Trinidad and Notting Hill. He has also directed and art-directed several independent and short films.

WILLIAM ATKINSON, Chair of Hackney Empire's Board, said he was “thrilled “ to welcome Khan with his “long and distinguished record across a number of art forms”.

“In addition to deepening our well-established and highly productive links with the local community, Keith’s international reach will bring opportunities for new and diverse collaborations and partnerships,” Atkinson added.

Khan said: “I am super excited to be joining the team at Hackney Empire. It is in one of the best areas in London… the heart of many of my passions, such as design, fashion, and all sorts of creative people. It is a type of diversity that I hope to reflect in this amazing building.

“I love it, as it has such a reputation as a venue, not tied to a particular art form or community. Some recall it as a big bingo hall, others think about its comedy and music programme. But overall it is at the heart of London, and its focus appeals to multiple audiences. That is what I find thrilling about this opportunity.”