Legendary music agent Neil Warnock has been named chairman of the Royal Albert Hall’s 150th Anniversary Committee.
Warnock, UTA's head of global touring, will lead a team of distinguished music industry figures who will act as Ambassadors as the storied Grade I-listed building prepares to celebrate its 150th birthday in 2021.
The Ambassadors have been selected from across the industry, and will lead in the creation of a special programme of events designed to commemorate the milestone.
Warnock’s career in the music industry spans five decades over which he has worked with the likes of The Rolling Stones, Pink Floyd, Johnny Cash, Dolly Parton and Michael Jackson.
“It is a true honour to chair the 150th Anniversary Committee," said Warnock (pictured). "The Royal Albert Hall is much more than just a beautiful Victorian venue, it’s a place of stories and memories – where people have been singing, dancing, laughing and crying together since 1871.
“The Ambassadors represent the best talent in the music industry and are the perfect team to support the Hall in bringing to life a programme that will go down in history.”
The Royal Albert Hall first opened its doors in 1871 with a programme of just 36 events in the first year. The venue now hosts over 400 auditorium shows a year with hundreds more in other spaces around the building.
Lucy Noble, artistic director at the Royal Albert Hall, said: “We are very proud to announce such a stellar roster of Ambassadors and cannot wait to share details of the special anniversary programme of events.
“Neil’s industry experience, coupled with his work with various other charities, makes him the ideal person to support the Hall and lead this important programme.”
In the run up to the anniversary, the Hall is collecting memorable stories from artists, staff and audiences. Submissions can be given on Facebook or Twitter, using the hashtag #RAH150, or on the Hall’s own website.
Full details of the 2021 artistic programme will be announced in due course.
To read Music Week's 2018 cover story on Warnock, click here.
