Mitchell Butel to Take Helm as Artistic Director of Sydney Theatre Company

The Sydney Theatre Company (STC) has made a groundbreaking announcement that has sent ripples through the Australian theatre community. Mitchell Butel, an award-winning actor, director, writer, and producer, has been appointed as the new Artistic Director and co-CEO of STC. This news comes on the heels of Kip Williams’ surprising decision to step down after the 2024 season. Williams, who has been a transformative figure for STC, will be leaving behind a legacy that has significantly shaped the company’s artistic direction. The appointment of Butel marks a new chapter for STC, one that promises to be as dynamic and innovative as the last.

Mitchell Butel is no stranger to the world of theatre. Since 2019, he has been serving as the Artistic Director of the State Theatre Company of South Australia, where he has garnered acclaim for his visionary leadership and artistic achievements. His tenure at the State Theatre Company was marked by a series of successful productions that not only captivated audiences but also pushed the boundaries of contemporary theatre. Butel’s extensive experience and deep understanding of the theatrical landscape make him an ideal candidate to lead STC into its next era.

Butel’s relationship with the Sydney Theatre Company is a long-standing one. He has worked with every Artistic Director of STC since he was a teenager, a testament to his enduring commitment to the company. Over the years, he has won multiple awards and nominations for his work in stage productions and Australian feature films. His versatility as an artist is well-known; he has directed and acted in over 150 stage productions, showcasing a range of genres and styles. This breadth of experience will undoubtedly serve him well as he takes on the role of Artistic Director and co-CEO of STC.

The announcement of Butel’s appointment has been met with widespread enthusiasm from the STC community. Kip Williams himself has expressed his excitement about handing over the baton to Butel. Williams, who has collaborated with Butel on several productions, praised his successor’s work as both an actor and director. He believes that Butel will take STC to new heights, building on the strong foundation that has been laid over the past few years. This endorsement from Williams is a significant vote of confidence in Butel’s ability to lead the company.

Butel’s vision for STC is one that emphasizes diversity and inclusivity. He plans to bring a wide range of voices, genres, and ideas to the company’s stages, fostering a rich and varied theatrical landscape. This approach aligns with his broader philosophy of theatre as a medium for empathy and understanding. Butel believes that theatre offers a unique opportunity to walk in other people’s shoes, to see the world from different perspectives. This commitment to diverse storytelling will be a cornerstone of his tenure at STC.

In addition to his artistic vision, Butel is also acutely aware of the financial challenges facing STC. One of his main tasks will be to restore the company’s finances and repair relationships with key philanthropic partners. These relationships were strained due to the company’s handling of a Gaza solidarity protest in 2023. Butel’s experience in managing the State Theatre Company’s finances and his ability to build strong, supportive networks will be invaluable in this regard. He is well-prepared to navigate these challenges and ensure the financial stability of STC.

Butel’s appointment is not just a professional milestone; it is also a deeply personal one. STC has played a significant role in shaping his life and career, and he feels honored and thrilled to be taking on this new role. He has expressed his humbleness at being appointed to the position and his excitement about the future. For Butel, this is an opportunity to give back to a company that has given him so much, to contribute to its ongoing success and evolution.

Anne Dunn, the Executive Director and co-CEO of STC, has also praised Butel’s dedication to artists and the industry. She highlighted his deep respect for the company’s history and his vision for its future. Dunn described Butel as a generous and unifying force, someone who understands the diverse interests involved in theatre-making. Her endorsement underscores the confidence that the STC board has in Butel’s ability to lead the company effectively.

Butel’s recent directorial successes include productions like Dennis Kelly’s ‘Girls & Boys’ and ‘The Dictionary of Lost Words,’ which he commissioned. These productions have been critically acclaimed and have resonated deeply with audiences. They exemplify Butel’s ability to choose compelling material and bring it to life on stage. His track record of success bodes well for his tenure at STC, suggesting that audiences can look forward to a series of innovative and engaging productions.

Kip Williams will announce the 2025 season, his last for STC, in September 2024. This final season will be a culmination of his artistic vision and a celebration of his contributions to the company. It will also serve as a bridge to Butel’s tenure, setting the stage for the new Artistic Director to build upon. Williams’ departure marks the end of an era, but it also heralds the beginning of an exciting new chapter for STC.

Butel will officially join STC in November, after completing his final season with the State Theatre Company of South Australia. In the meantime, audiences can continue to enjoy STC’s offerings for the remainder of 2024. This transitional period will allow for a smooth handover and ensure that the company continues to operate seamlessly. The STC community is eagerly anticipating Butel’s arrival and the fresh perspective he will bring to the role.

As Butel prepares to take on his new role, he is already thinking about the future of STC. He is committed to engaging the broader STC community in conversations about their shared future, fostering a sense of collective ownership and involvement. This collaborative approach will be key to his success, as it will ensure that the company remains responsive to the needs and aspirations of its audience. Butel’s passion for theatre and his dedication to bringing stories to life will undoubtedly inspire those around him and drive STC forward.