Sir Elton to head up Old Vic

Sir Elton replaces Lord Bernstein in the key position at the head of the Old Vic Theatre Trust.

The star is currently composing a musical version of the hit movie Billy Elliot and was behind the hit Broadway show Aida.

The Trust said he had a "profound love and respect of theatre" and would be leading the Old Vic into "a new phase of its development and growth".

The musician said: "I am proud to join the Old Vic Theatre Trust as the new chairman. The Old Vic is one of the most important theatres in Great Britain having been the home to some of the greatest actors and companies of the last century.

"I am immensely excited about contributing to the future of this great theatre."

It is hoped that Sir Elton's involvement will "energise and enthuse the theatre-going public", the Old Vic's chief executive Sally Greene said.