Lynette Linton’s successor at the new writing venue in west London promises to build on its bold legacy

Taio Lawson has been appointed as the new artistic director of the Bush theatre in west London. He will succeed Lynette Linton, who is leaving after six years in charge of the venue which is known for nurturing new playwrights.

Lawson, whose first season of work will be presented early next year, will also act as co-CEO in partnership with Mimi Findlay. He said he was honoured to be taking over “at a time when the need for enduring original narratives is so important”. Praising the work of Linton and associate artistic director Daniel Bailey, who has also stepped down, Lawson said he would build on their achievements and “programme bold pieces that speak to our hearts and stimulate our minds, that both comfort and challenge us”.