In the vast and dynamic world of British theatre, few names resonate with as much creativity, empathy, and leadership as Roxana Silbert. A director, producer, and artistic leader of exceptional calibre, she has dedicated her life to redefining the boundaries of storytelling on stage. From her early years in Argentina to her influential positions at the Royal Shakespeare Company, Birmingham Repertory Theatre, and Hampstead Theatre, Roxana Silbert’s journey reflects a rare combination of intellect, passion, and humanity. Her work not only celebrates the power of performance but also explores the heart of what it means to live, think, and feel through art.
Early Life and Background
Roxana Silbert was born in 1964 in La Plata, Argentina, into a family deeply connected to literature, language, and learning. When she was six years old, her family moved to England, escaping the turbulent political climate of Argentina during its military dictatorship. This early displacement profoundly shaped her worldview, instilling in her a sense of empathy and multicultural awareness that later became visible in her artistic vision.
Her family background itself was a blend of cultures—her father of Russian-Jewish origin and her mother of Italian descent. This combination of traditions, languages, and histories gave Roxana a unique lens through which she would later interpret theatre and humanity. Growing up in England, she became fascinated by the English language and literature, a fascination that led her to study English at the University of Cambridge. Her academic grounding in classic and modern texts laid the foundation for her lifelong passion for dramatic storytelling.
After completing her degree, Silbert worked briefly in television as a production assistant. However, her heart was drawn to the live immediacy and collaborative magic of theatre. She pursued formal training in directing at the London Drama Studio in Ealing, setting the stage for a remarkable career that would soon reshape British theatre.
The Early Steps in Theatre
Roxana Silbert’s entry into professional theatre came through positions that demanded both literary sensitivity and visionary direction. She first made her mark at the Traverse Theatre in Edinburgh, serving as Literary Director. Here, she developed an eye for new voices and daring writing styles, championing playwrights whose works pushed boundaries and questioned social realities.
Her growing reputation led her to the Royal Court Theatre, London’s hub for new writing, where she served as an Associate Director. At the Royal Court, she honed her ability to nurture emerging talent, guiding playwrights to refine their ideas and helping them find their authentic voice. This period was crucial in establishing her as one of the foremost champions of contemporary playwriting.
Paines Plough: A Stage for Innovation
In 2005, Roxana Silbert was appointed Artistic Director of Paines Plough, one of the UK’s leading touring companies dedicated to new plays. Her leadership transformed the organisation, expanding its reach and redefining its artistic direction. Under her guidance, Paines Plough became a fertile ground for experimentation, giving voice to a new generation of British playwrights.
Silbert’s tenure was marked by an unshakable belief that theatre should belong to everyone, not just those in London’s elite circles. She took performances to small towns, schools, and community halls, ensuring that powerful stories reached diverse audiences. She often said that theatre is not a luxury—it is a necessity, a mirror through which society can see itself clearly.
Royal Shakespeare Company: Bridging the Classical and the Contemporary
Her next major chapter began in 2009 when she joined the Royal Shakespeare Company (RSC) as an Associate Director. This was a significant step in her career, allowing her to bring her modern sensibilities to the works of Shakespeare and other classical playwrights.
At the RSC, she directed several acclaimed productions, most notably Richard III in 2012. Her version of the play was known for its raw energy, human depth, and psychological insight. She brought out the political parallels between Shakespeare’s world and modern leadership, making centuries-old texts feel urgent and alive.
During her time at the RSC, she also focused on expanding opportunities for new writing. She believed that Shakespeare’s legacy was not just about preserving the past but also about encouraging future generations of writers. Her approach created a bridge between the classical and the contemporary, making the RSC’s repertoire richer and more relevant.
Birmingham Repertory Theatre: A New Era of Inclusivity
In 2013, Roxana Silbert became the Artistic Director of Birmingham Repertory Theatre, a historic institution that has long stood at the heart of Britain’s regional theatre scene. Her arrival marked the beginning of a new era defined by inclusivity, innovation, and collaboration.
Silbert’s leadership was rooted in the idea that theatre must reflect the diversity of the community it serves. She commissioned new works from underrepresented voices, brought in local stories, and collaborated with artists from various cultural backgrounds. Her programming was both bold and compassionate, balancing challenging contemporary narratives with accessible entertainment.
One of her standout achievements at Birmingham Rep was her commitment to making theatre accessible to younger audiences. She introduced outreach initiatives and education programmes that encouraged children and students to engage with live performance. Her belief that theatre should nurture imagination and empathy in the next generation became a driving force behind her work.
Hampstead Theatre: Leadership in Turbulent Times
In 2019, Roxana Silbert was appointed Artistic Director and Joint Chief Executive of Hampstead Theatre, succeeding Edward Hall. This position placed her at the helm of one of London’s most respected venues for new writing. She entered at a time of transition and uncertainty, but her vision remained clear: to champion bold voices, contemporary storytelling, and artistic freedom.
Under her direction, Hampstead Theatre continued its tradition of supporting new playwrights while also exploring themes of identity, justice, and humanity. However, the years following her appointment were particularly challenging due to the COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent funding cuts.
When the Arts Council of England withdrew financial support in 2022, the theatre faced an existential crisis. Despite these immense challenges, Silbert remained steadfast, advocating for the importance of artistic institutions in cultural and social life. Her departure in 2022 was met with widespread admiration and sadness across the British theatre community, a reflection of her immense influence and integrity.
Artistic Vision and Directorial Style
Roxana Silbert’s directing style is often described as intimate yet daring. She is known for her ability to draw deeply human performances from actors while maintaining a clear structural and thematic vision. Her rehearsals are collaborative spaces where ideas flow freely, and every participant feels ownership of the story.
Her work is guided by a profound respect for the writer’s voice. Whether dealing with Shakespearean verse or modern dialogue, she approaches text as a living organism—something that must breathe and evolve with each performance. She has often said that her greatest satisfaction comes from watching actors and audiences connect emotionally through shared stories.
Moreover, Silbert’s productions frequently explore themes of power, displacement, justice, and belonging. These interests reflect her personal history and her sensitivity to social inequality. She uses theatre not just as entertainment but as a form of cultural conversation—a way to confront difficult questions and inspire empathy.
Advocacy for Diversity and New Writing
Throughout her career, Roxana Silbert has been a tireless advocate for diversity in theatre—not only in casting but also in storytelling, leadership, and opportunity. She has worked consistently to ensure that theatre reflects the full spectrum of human experience.
Her tenure at institutions like Paines Plough, Birmingham Rep, and Hampstead Theatre was marked by a strong focus on new writing. She mentored emerging playwrights, providing them with platforms to experiment and grow. Her influence helped shape the careers of many who now define contemporary British theatre.
Silbert also played a crucial role in expanding access for women directors and creatives in an industry historically dominated by men. Her success served as a beacon for younger women seeking to make their mark in the arts.
Personal Philosophy and Influence
At the heart of Roxana Silbert’s philosophy is the belief that theatre has the power to change lives. She has often remarked that theatre is not just about performance—it is about understanding one another. For her, the stage is a space where empathy becomes action, where strangers come together to share stories that remind them of their shared humanity.
Her work is not confined to the grand stages of London or Stratford-upon-Avon; it reaches communities, schools, and individuals who might otherwise never experience live theatre. This democratic approach defines her legacy—one that blends artistic excellence with social consciousness.
Legacy and Continuing Impact
Today, Roxana Silbert is recognised as one of the most influential theatre figures of her generation. Her contributions to British culture go far beyond the productions she has directed. She has shaped institutions, inspired artists, and left behind a framework for inclusive, forward-thinking theatre.
Even after stepping down from her role at Hampstead Theatre, Silbert continues to work as a freelance director and creative consultant, developing new works for theatre, screen, and audio. Her ongoing involvement ensures that her voice remains a guiding force in the ever-changing landscape of modern drama.
Critics and colleagues alike often describe her as a “quiet revolutionary”—a leader who changes the system not through confrontation, but through example. Her ability to combine artistic vision with moral clarity sets her apart in an era where the arts often struggle for purpose and funding.
Conclusion
Roxana Silbert stands as a towering figure in the story of British theatre. Her career reflects courage, creativity, and a profound belief in the transformative power of art. From her early beginnings in Argentina to her leadership roles in the UK’s most prestigious institutions, she has never lost sight of theatre’s ultimate purpose: to connect, to challenge, and to heal.
Through her work, she has not only shaped the future of performance but also inspired countless individuals to believe that stories—told honestly and fearlessly—can change the world. Roxana Silbert’s legacy is not confined to stages or seasons; it lives in the imagination of every artist and audience member who has felt the truth of her vision.
