Michael Grandage CBE to step down as Central's president

After standing in the post for 12 years, award-winning director and producer Michael Grandage CBE will stand down from the role of president at the The Royal Central School of Speech and Drama. 

Grandage oversaw the acquisition of Royal title and the opening of the school’s North Block building during his tenure. 

He also established the President's Circle to drum up financial support for the school and ensure the availability of its scholarships and bursaries. 

The president graduated from Central in 1984, and was appointed as president in 2009. 

Reflecting on his time as Central’s president, Michael Grandage said: ‘It has been an incredible honour serving as president of Central for the last twelve years. The most life affirming part of the job has unquestionably been the connection with the students, and I am enormously proud of all they continue to achieve. 

‘Education should always be about looking to the future, and I am happy to do so now as I step away and pass the baton onto others. Central is going from strength to strength and as a graduate myself, I look forward to continuing to play an active part in all that lies ahead.’

Josette Bushell-Mingo OBE, Central’s principal and CEO, said: ‘It is with sadness but huge gratitude that I say thank you to Michael Grandage who has been a rock, a cheerleader, a friendly critic and a supporter to both me personally as well as to Central.  

‘Michael represents to me all that we can be, and that Central is the place for that to grow. Michael’s career continues to fly and we are forever proud that he remains a friend to, and a proud graduate of, Central.’