Leading producer announced as new SOLT president

Kenny Wax

The Society of London Theatre (SOLT) has announced that leading producer Kenny Wax has been appointed as its new president.

Kenny brings extensive experience to SOLT having produced plays, musicals and family theatre in the West End as well as on tour. His current London productions include The Play That Goes Wrong (also running on Broadway), The Comedy About A Bank Robbery and La Strada. SOLT chief executive Julian Bird said: "In an ever-changing and fast-moving industry, Kenny will be a huge asset to the organisation. Having worked at every level in theatre, there is no better champion of our work."

Kenny's appointment comes at the end of the three-year tenure of the current president, Caro Newling.

Julian added: "SOLT would also like thank Caro Newling for her tireless work as president, particularly her work and passion for training and building new audiences.”

Kenny began his theatre career as an usher at the Theatre Royal Drury Lane in London in 1989, gaining hands-on experience as a follow-spot operator, flyman, a member of the stage crew and box office clerk.

He produced his first shows at the King’s Head Theatre in London in 1991 before setting up production company Kenny Wax Ltd in 1997.

His productions have won three Olivier Awards: best new musical for Top Hat and Once On This Island and best new comedy for The Play That Goes Wrong.

Through his company Kenny Wax Family Entertainment, he produces a number of shows for children and families which tour throughout the year with West End runs over the summer and Christmas seasons.

Kenny said: “Due to the innovative work of Caro Newling, chief executive Julian Bird and their excellent team at Rose Street, SOLT continues to position itself at the very heart of everything progressive which is happening in Theatreland.

"As we face new challenges and opportunities, SOLT’s work is more important than ever. It is an honour to have been asked to take on this role and to help our members safeguard our industry.” SOLT is the not-for-profit organisation representing the London theatre industry. The organisation produces the Olivier Awards and West End Live and runs audience development initiatives including Get Into London Theatre and Kids Week which runs throughout August.