Apart from his excellent achievements as Chief Executive of Shakespeare’s Globe, and soon to be CEO/Clerk of the Musicians’ Company (one of the City of London’s ancient Livery Companies), Neil has been one of our most important and valued consigliere, guiding us from the outset of our project becoming public. Indeed, the support of the Shakespeare’s Globe across so many disciplines has simply been invaluable, and Neil has, and will continue to be, hugely cherished by the Teatro San Cassiano and by our CEO, Paul Atkin, especially.

This year, Neil stepped down as Chief Executive after almost 14 years leading Shakespeare’s Globe. Huge congratulations to Stella Kanu who has taken over as the Globe’s new CEO and with whom we are looking forward to continuing our close ties.

The New Year Honours Lists mark the achievements and service of extraordinary people across the UK. Over Neil’s leadership, he headed the team that transformed the Globe into the world-class destination it is today and which so inspires the Teatro San Cassiano.

Neil said: “I am absolutely delighted, and of course, deeply honoured to receive an OBE for my services to the theatre industry. I have worked in this extraordinary industry for 40 years, and the most important part of my professional life has been in dedication to Shakespeare’s Globe. This remarkable and internationally beloved charity continues to thrive as a creatively ambitious, dynamic and a worthy custodian of Shakespeare for future generations to come.”

Congratulations Neil. Thoroughly deserved!