Central School of Speech and Drama President departs

MICHAEL GRANDAGE CBE is stepping down as President of the Royal Central School of Speech and Drama (CSSD).

Grandage is a director and producer who graduated from CSSD in 1984. During his twelve years as President, he oversaw the acquisition of Royal title and the opening of the School’s new North Block building.

He established the President's Circle, which raises financial support for CSSD's work and ensures the availability of scholarships and bursaries for those who wish to train at the school.

He also initiated the Michael Grandage Scholarship and worked alongside the Donmar Warehouse to support and mentor the school's students, which CSSD says has been "particularly meaningful" during Covid.

The Chair of CSSD’s governing body, JOHN WILLIS, said Grandage’s passion for the arts, creative skill and commitment to drama training for young people has shone through. 

“Both formally and informally he has contributed an enormous amount to Central’s success over the last decade. We have been lucky to have such a world class talent as our President. He is also a special person who will be badly missed but, I am sure, will continue his lifetime relationship with Central,” Willis added.   

Reflecting on his tenure, Grandage said it has been an incredible honour to serve as CSSD's President: “The most life affirming part of the job has unquestionably been the connection with the students, and I am enormously proud of all they continue to achieve.

“Education should always be about looking to the future, and I am happy to do so now as I step away and pass the baton onto others. Central is going from strength to strength and as a graduate myself, I look forward to continuing to play an active part in all that lies ahead,” he added.  

His successor will be announced later in autumn.