LAMDA appoints Professor Mark O’Thomas as principal and chief executive

Starting from 1 October, Professor Mark O’Thomas will take up the position of principal and chief executive of the London Academy of Music & Dramatic Art (LAMDA). 

In the new role, O’Thomas will prioritise the growth in LAMDA Examinations and international applications, as well as striving for an inclusive, diverse and inspiring environment at the school. 

Professor Mark O’Thomas said: ‘I am thrilled to succeed as the next Principal and new Chief Executive of LAMDA. 

‘I will serve LAMDA, its staff and students as it embarks on an exciting new phase of its development, making the most of my previous senior roles in higher education and in the performing arts sectors, my proven background in developing and implementing equality and diversity practices, my work as an academic in the creative industries, as well as my practical experience in theatre and television.’

Rt. Hon. Shaun Woodward, chair of LAMDA, today said: ‘Mark is an outstanding appointment for LAMDA. The Board is confident that his experience in education and the creative industries, his insights into drama training and technical training, and his proven commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion will mean that LAMDA can build on the very significant changes undertaken in the last three years.

LAMDA has also announced today that Dr Philippa Strandberg-Long will become the new head of actor training at the school later in the academic year, moving from her current position as deputy course leader of acting courses at Italia Conti Academy of Theatre Arts. 

Shaun Woodward said: ‘Philippa will bring considerable experience in actor training in a wide variety of our greatest acting training schools to LAMDA. Working with our Executive Dean of the Drama School, Will Wollen, we have a fantastic team to lead LAMDA’s actor training.’

www.lamda.ac.uk