Genesis Fellow Taio Lawson appointed artistic director of the Bush Theatre
7 March 2025
Taio Lawson, the Genesis Foundation’s current Genesis Fellow and associate director at the Young Vic, has been appointed artistic director and co-chief executive of the Bush Theatre.
Taio will join the organisation and oversee the final season of plays programmed by Lynette Linton, who leaves the theatre this month.
A trustee for Parents & Carers in the Performing Arts, and a theatremaker who has worked at venues including Sheffield Theatres and the Almeida Theatre, Lawson will lead the Bush with executive director and co-chief executive, Mimi Findlay.
Taio said: “I am honoured to be stepping into the role of artistic director of the Bush, at a time when the need for enduring original narratives is so important. The Bush is unequalled in its championing of new writing and talent development, as well as being a vital hub for the local diverse community. We will stay committed to welcoming everyone, locally and nationally”.
The Genesis Fellowship was established in 2010 with the appointment of Joe Hill-Gibbins, followed by Carrie Cracknell, Natalie Abrahami, Gbolahan Obisesan, Nadia Latif and Jennifer Tang.
Since beginning his fellowship in 2023, Taio has mentored two Genesis Future Directors Award recipients: Annie Kershaw (2024) and Andrea Ling (2023).
On his Genesis Fellowship, Taio said: “I saw my first play at the Young Vic on a school trip in 2000. Being able to make theatre in the same place I fell in love with the art form is a personal full circle moment”.
Taio’s tenure at the Young Vic will end this May.
