Maxine English
When you think of the West End, you picture dazzling lights, historic theatres, and world-class productions. But behind the scenes, it’s people like Maxine English who keep the magic alive. Currently the General Manager of London’s legendary Savoy Theatre, Maxine’s career has been anything but ordinary. From the glitz of Dubai’s entertainment scene to the grandeur of the UK’s theatre industry, her journey is one of passion, grit, and an unrelenting love for the arts.
Before stepping into her role at the Savoy, Maxine was an integral part of Dubai’s thriving entertainment industry. For those familiar with the city, you’ll know that bringing world-class live performances to the region isn’t always straightforward. Yet, Maxine played a pivotal role in making it happen.
From working on massive concerts featuring the likes of The Rolling Stones and Madonna to managing some of Dubai’s most well-known theatre venues, she was at the heart of the city’s cultural evolution. If you’ve ever caught a show at Souk Madinat Theatre, DUCTAC, or Theatre by QE2, you’ve likely seen her influence in action.
Dubai might be known for its skyscrapers and luxury, but for Maxine, it was about creating spaces where audiences could be transported by the power of live performance. “Dubai was an incredible place to work,” she says. “It was all about making things happen, even when it seemed impossible.”
It’s clear that Maxine isn’t just in this industry for the job title—she lives and breathes theatre. Her passion for live performance started young, and it’s something that has never faded. Whether it’s an intimate play or a full-scale musical, she understands the power of storytelling and how a single production can leave a lasting impact on an audience.
But what is it about theatre that keeps her hooked? “It’s the unpredictability,” she explains. “No two nights are ever the same. The energy, the audience, the performers—it all shifts, and that’s what makes it so special.”
Now at the helm of one of London’s most iconic theatres, Maxine’s role is a balancing act of business, creativity, and logistical problem-solving. The Savoy Theatre is known for staging some of the biggest productions in the UK, and Maxine is right at the centre of ensuring everything runs seamlessly.
From managing the day-to-day operations to ensuring productions meet the high expectations of West End audiences, it’s a role that demands both expertise and resilience. “Theatre isn’t just about what happens on stage,” she says. “It’s about the people behind the scenes, the teams that make it all work, and the experience we create for the audience.”
When she’s not running one of the most famous theatres in London, Maxine’s interests reflect her creative and passionate spirit. She loves music, musicals, and, of course, a good glass of wine. Family is at the heart of everything she does, and she wouldn’t have it any other way.
Her journey from Dubai to the West End is a testament to what’s possible when you follow your passion and push boundaries. And for those dreaming of a career in theatre, she has one piece of advice: “Say yes to opportunities, even the ones that scare you. That’s where the magic happens.”
