Frank Hauser, CBE 1922—2007 Patron: 1980—1988

After a short spell at Salisbury Playhouse, Hauser was appointed Artistic Director of the long-neglected 700-seat Oxford Playhouse in 1956, and put it into the forefront of regional theatres. During his tenure (1956-1973) he presented a host of world premieres and directed many leading actors including Judi Dench, Ian McKellen, Leo McKern, Alan Badel, Dirk Bogarde, Yvonne Mitchell and Constance Cummings.

In 1966 he persuaded his old friend Richard Burton and his wife Elizabeth Taylor to star in an OUDS production of Marlowe's Doctor Faustus to raise fund for an extension at the Playhouse.

After leaving Oxford in 1973, Hauser directed many West End productions including Robert Bolt's A Man for All Seasons (Savoy, 1987), with Charlton Heston as Sir Thomas More, which had been previewed at the Chichester Festival Theatre. He also directed Hobson's Choice (1995) and his last production, Misalliance (1997) at Chichester.

< Dame Wendy Hiller

Patrons

Ronnie Barker  >