The next Cameron Mackintosh Visiting Professor of Contemporary Theatre is to be the actor, Adjoa Andoh.
She will take up the non-teaching post based at St Catherine’s College, Oxford, in October giving an inaugural lecture and holding workshops and seminars with students during the academic year.
In theatre, Andoh's credits cover both acting and directing. On stage, she has performed at the RSC, the Bridge Theatre, the National Theatre, in the West End and New York and at the Globe where she conceived and co-directed Richard II.
Her television credits include Bridgerton, Eastenders, Dr Who and Casualty.
Sir Cameron Mackintosh said, “since I was lucky enough to have Stephen Sondheim establish the Chair 31 years ago, when he revealed that he was as masterful a teacher as he was a composer and lyricist, I have been honoured that it has attracted so many legendary talents from the world of theatre and film.
"This year, I am particularly delighted to welcome Adjoa Andoh, who is not only known as a brilliant contemporary actress, including her recent dazzling performance in Bridgerton, but also for her cutting edge approach to directing and performing Shakespeare in London which has had a powerful impact on modern theatre."
Bristol-born Andoh, the 29th incumbent, follows in the footsteps of the likes of Phyllida Lloyd, Ian McKellen, Nick Hytner, Deborah Warner, Stephen Daldry and Tom Stoppard.