Oxford Playhouse names new Artistic Director

MIKE TWEDDLE will take the helm at Oxford Playhouse as Artistic Director and Chief Executive Officer in autumn 2023.

Until 2022, Tweedle was Artistic Director and CEO of Tobacco Factory Theatre, where he oversaw 20 in-house productions, five of which he directed. 

Prior to this, Tweddle was Joint Artistic Director of the touring ensemble Out of Chaos, creating shows that toured nationally and internationally, and Co-Founding Director of BE FESTIVAL, Birmingham’s international theatre festival. Welcoming 20 shows from across Europe each summer, he helped establish the festival as an Arts Council National Portfolio Organisation.

As a freelance director, Tweddle has worked with organisations including Shakespeare’s Globe, National Youth Theatre and Ad Infinitum.

“We could not be more pleased to be welcoming Mike back to Oxford, following his previous association as an Evolve artist, to lead the Playhouse,” Chair DEBBIE DANCE commented. 

“He has already warmed the hearts of everyone he has met with his vision for the future, and we feel sure that he will bring out the very best of the talented and creative OP team to keep the organisation at the heart of Oxford’s cultural scene.”

“The organisation played a major role in my professional development, and I’m inspired by its proud history, its recent achievements, and the vision to create a ‘Playhouse for everyone’,” Tweddle added. 

“I’ve greatly enjoyed meeting with the passionate, talented team and dedicated trustees, and I look forward to collaborating with them on fulfilling that vision.”