Blanchett, Upton: re-signed to STC

2009 saw the the Sydney Theatre Company experience several high profile departures – including General Manager Rob Brookman – but Cate Blanchett and Andrew Upton have confirmed their commitment with the organisation by re-signing as Artistic Directors until the end of 2013.

Chairman Ian Darling, who himself is leaving the company, welcomed the news.

“The Board is delighted that Andrew Upton and Cate Blanchett will continue to lead the Company with a second term as Artistic Directors,” he said.

“In their first two years they’ve transformed the Company and the way many people feel about it. I’m pleased they will stay to build on what they have already achieved in terms of quality and diversity of productions, artform development and education.”

Upton and Blanchett took over the company in January 2008. Whilst their appointment was controversial at the time – with accusations of ‘star power’ – it has been a major success for the company.

“It is a really great privilege to lead Sydney Theatre Company,” Upton and Blanchett said in a statement.

“We hope more and more people, especially those in Sydney, will find their way to the Company and join us on this incredible ride.”

Sydney Theatre Company also ends the year with news that Audi Australia has extended its current term as Principal Sponsor of the Company through to late in 2012.

This means a five-year commitment (2008 – 2012) by Audi to Sydney Theatre Company, reflecting the company’s strong support of the arts worldwide.