Renowned theatre director Rupert Goold has made headlines with his candid remarks about the current state of the theatre industry, stating that if he were graduating today, he would choose a different career path. Goold, who has helmed over 70 productions at London’s Almeida Theatre since 2013, is set to take on the role of artistic director at The Old Vic later this year. His reflections come at a time when the theatre world is undergoing significant transformations, grappling with both creative challenges and cultural shifts.
A Career in Transition
At 53, Goold is a pivotal figure in British theatre, known for his innovative approach to classic and contemporary works alike. His tenure at the Almeida Theatre has been marked by ambitious projects, including a musical adaptation of Bret Easton Ellis’s *American Psycho* and a critically acclaimed production of *A Streetcar Named Desire* featuring Paul Mescal. As he prepares to step into his new role at The Old Vic, Goold is taking stock of his journey from a Cambridge University graduate to one of the most respected directors in the UK.
In a recent interview with *The Telegraph*, Goold acknowledged the difficulties facing new entrants to the industry today. “To be honest, I don’t think I would have done it. If I was graduating now, I would have done something else,” he admitted, highlighting the challenges posed by the current cultural climate and financial uncertainties within the arts.
Aspirations and Ambitions
Despite his reservations about the industry, Goold remains ambitious. He applied for the artistic director position at the National Theatre in 2023, fully aware that the role might not suit someone of his background. “I knew it wasn’t going to go to somebody like me,” he explained. Yet, he felt compelled to apply, fearing that he would regret not seizing the opportunity. “But I also would have dreaded [getting] it, for all the reasons you can imagine!”
This introspective approach reveals Goold’s deep understanding of the pressures and expectations that come with high-profile roles in theatre. As he transitions to The Old Vic, he is eager to explore new creative avenues, although he remains tight-lipped about specific plans for his inaugural season.
Navigating Cultural Challenges
Goold also weighed in on the ongoing cultural battles that have permeated the theatre landscape, particularly in the era of cancel culture. He remarked, “The world went mad, and theatre was part of that. Now, the world has got madder but I think theatre is getting saner or at least, it’s trying to deal with the madness.” His observations underscore a broader conversation about the role of theatre in reflecting societal issues while preserving the principle of free expression.
As the director gears up for his first season at The Old Vic—expected to be announced this autumn—he has teased a production of *Paradise Lost* among other works. Meanwhile, he is focused on his final season at the Almeida, which will revisit his musical *American Psycho* alongside productions of Henrik Ibsen’s *A Doll’s House* and Sarah Kane’s *Cleansed*.
Why it Matters
Goold’s reflections resonate deeply in a time when the arts are under pressure from various societal forces. His willingness to speak candidly about the challenges of entering the industry today offers valuable insights for aspiring artists. As he embarks on his new chapter at The Old Vic, the questions he raises about freedom of speech and the evolving nature of theatre will undoubtedly shape discussions within the artistic community for years to come. Goold’s journey not only highlights the complexities of the theatrical landscape but also the resilience required to navigate it, making his forthcoming contributions all the more significant.
