Trevor Nunn

Trevor Nunn

Trevor Nunn is a renowned British theatre director and writer. He is best known for his work with the Royal Shakespeare Company (RSC) and his successful productions of musicals such as "Cats" and "Les Misérables". Nunn's contributions to the world of theatre have earned him numerous accolades and a prominent place in the history of British theatre.

Early Life and Education

Trevor Nunn was born on January 14, 1940, in Ipswich, Suffolk, England. He developed a passion for theatre at a young age and was actively involved in school productions. Nunn attended Downing College, Cambridge, where he studied English literature. During his time at Cambridge, he became a member of the prestigious Cambridge Footlights, a renowned comedy troupe that has produced many notable comedians and actors.

Career

After completing his studies, Nunn began his career in theatre as an actor and director. He joined the Royal Shakespeare Company in 1964 and quickly gained recognition for his innovative and dynamic approach to directing. Nunn's productions at the RSC, including "Macbeth" and "King Lear", received critical acclaim and established him as a leading figure in British theatre.

In 1976, Nunn became the Artistic Director of the RSC, a position he held until 1986. During his tenure, he introduced groundbreaking productions and collaborated with renowned actors and designers. Nunn's vision and leadership transformed the RSC into a global powerhouse, attracting audiences from around the world.

Nunn's success at the RSC led to opportunities in the commercial theatre sector. He directed the original production of Andrew Lloyd Webber's "Cats" in 1981, which became a worldwide phenomenon and ran for a record-breaking 21 years in London's West End. Nunn's collaboration with Lloyd Webber continued with the iconic musical "Les Misérables", which premiered in 1985 and went on to become one of the longest-running musicals in history.

Throughout his career, Nunn has directed a wide range of plays and musicals, including Shakespearean classics, contemporary dramas, and Broadway hits. His notable productions include "Nicholas Nickleby", "Sunset Boulevard", and "Oklahoma!". Nunn's ability to bring fresh perspectives to familiar works and his commitment to storytelling have made him a beloved and respected figure in the theatre world.

Legacy

Trevor Nunn's contributions to theatre have been recognized with numerous awards and honors. He has received several Tony Awards for his Broadway productions and was knighted in 2002 for his services to drama. Nunn's innovative approach to directing and his ability to connect with audiences have left a lasting impact on the theatre industry.

Nunn's influence extends beyond his own productions. He has mentored and inspired a new generation of theatre directors, many of whom have gone on to achieve great success. His dedication to nurturing talent and pushing the boundaries of theatrical storytelling has shaped the future of British theatre.

Personal Life

Trevor Nunn has been married three times. His first wife was actress Janet Suzman, with whom he has a daughter. He later married actress Sharon Lee-Hill, and they have two children together. Nunn's third wife is actress Imogen Stubbs, with whom he has a son.

See Also

• Royal Shakespeare Company
• Cats (musical)
• Les Misérables (musical)

External Links

• Official Website of Trevor Nunn
• Royal Shakespeare Company Official Website