A key role within the theatrical life of the College is the Cameron Mackintosh Visiting Professor of Contemporary Theatre. The post is a University professorship attached to St Catherine’s College, with a new chair appointed each year. 

About the visiting professorship

The Cameron Mackintosh Visiting Professor of Contemporary Theatre is a University position, held for one year by a significant figure in the world of theatre.

The role was established in 1990 following a generous gift from the theatre producer Sir Cameron Mackintosh. The visiting professorship in his name seeks to encourage and promote the study and practice of contemporary theatre at the University.

Since its inception, the position has been held by a very distinguished cohort of theatrical greats – see the full list below. These have included actors, directors, producers and members of creative teams. Over the course of their tenure, each professor works with students from across the University, with events such as the inaugural lecture also open to the public.

The position gives students at Oxford the opportunity to work directly with some of the world’s most inspiring and creative forces in contemporary theatre.

Former holders of the position of Cameron Mackintosh Visiting Professor of Contemporary Theatre have included some of the most well-known figures in theatre, film and television.