Emma Rice to succeed Dominic Dromgoole as Globe artistic director

Two years ago Dominic Dromgoole – artistic director since 2006 – announced he would leave Shakespeare's Globe in 2016.

Chief executive Neil Constable said: "Emma has enjoyed exceptional success, both as the long-standing and inspirational joint artistic director of Kneehigh and as an independent director, producing and directing award-winning productions that are widely recognised to have an immediate connection with audiences and are seen all over the world.

"Her spirit and energy, her love of Shakespeare and her wholehearted and passionate response to the Globe's architecture and audiences make her a worthy candidate in what has been a widely sought-after role.

"I have no doubt she will bring all these qualities to the Globe and build on the considerable achievements of Dominic Dromgoole. I can think of no one better placed to take on the Globe, and I look forward to working with her at what continues to be a particularly exciting time in the Globe's history."

Emma Rice said: "I am delighted and honoured to be taking over the artistic direction of Shakespeare's Globe. Open to the elements, and to its audience, this unique and important space demands theatre that brims with passion, joy and humanity.

"Mindful of the extraordinary artists I follow, I will take custody of this incredible organisation with an open heart, fierce passion and excited mind."

Dominic Dromgoole, said: "This is an excellent appointment, in keeping with the Globe's traditions of boldness and adventure.

"Over many years, Emma has created at Kneehigh a body of work that shares the same principles of imagination, populism, wit and passion that have always been central to the Globe.

"Kneehigh have also pulled off the same happy trick of a fierce local attachment in Cornwall and a broad international reach, which is so important to the Globe, in Southwark and everywhere.

"I am sure that Emma will be a great complement to the Globe's heterodox traditions, and also a major surprise."