A-list British actor Daniel Kaluuya has announced his new role as the Associate Artistic Director of the Roundhouse in Camden.
Widely-loved for his standout performances in films such as Get Out, Queen & Slim, Nope and Judas and the Black Messiah, the historic London venue is said to hold a special place in Kaluuya’s heart, as it was this same venue—close to where he grew up in Camden—where he attended some of his first drama classes as a teenager.
According to a post shared by Twitter Partner Manager Dionne Grant, Kaluuya intends to establish Centre 59, a youth theatre company aimed at supporting aspiring young performers aged between 13 and 25. The initiative seeks to provide a supportive and inclusive environment where individuals can cultivate their talents, and will be charged just £2 per hour.
Reflecting on his early days in a statement, Kaluuya said: “After attending drama classes at the Roundhouse 20 years ago, establishing Centre 59 in my first act as Associate Artistic Director is a full circle moment. It is a great opportunity to pay forward what I appreciated receiving in my own youth – and creating Centre 59 is the perfect way to do that. With shared values of community, taking action and legacy, Roundhouse is the ideal partner. I am excited about how the next generation will be inspired, grow and benefit from what we will all build together.”
In response to the announcement, Marcus Davey, Chief Executive and Artistic Director at the Roundhouse said: “Welcoming Daniel back to the Roundhouse as Associate Artistic Director is a huge honour. Since his time here as a teenager, we have watched in awe as Daniel has gone on to become a household name, in the UK and across the world. Daniel is proof of what can happen when you give young people the space and opportunity to express themselves and develop their creativity.”
As the Roundhouse prepares for its new chapter under Kaluuya’s artistic leadership, those looking to enter the creative field can look forward to the official opening date and registration details in the coming weeks.
