John Caird

John Caird is an internationally acclaimed director and playwright whose work has spanned theatre, opera, and musical theatre. Born in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada, in 1948, Caird developed a passion for storytelling and the stage at an early age. He became known for his inventive approach to both classical and contemporary works, blending respect for tradition with an eye toward innovation. Over the course of his career, he has established himself as one of the most versatile and influential figures in modern theatre.

Caird’s most enduring association is with the Royal Shakespeare Company (RSC), where he directed a wide range of productions, including Shakespearean classics and new works. His partnership with fellow director Trevor Nunn produced some of the company’s most successful stagings, notably their groundbreaking adaptation of Charles Dickens’s Nicholas Nickleby, which won multiple awards and became a landmark in British theatre. His directorial style is marked by clarity, emotional truth, and an ability to adapt sprawling narratives for the stage.

Beyond the RSC, Caird is perhaps best known for his long-standing collaboration with composer Claude-Michel Schönberg and lyricist Alain Boublil. He co-directed the original English-language production of Les Misérables, which went on to become one of the most successful musicals in history, running for decades in London’s West End and on Broadway. Caird also contributed to The Life and Adventures of Nicholas Nickleby and worked on several major international productions, solidifying his reputation as a world-class director of both plays and musicals.

As a playwright and librettist, Caird has written and adapted numerous works. Notably, he penned the book for Daddy Long Legs, a two-character musical based on Jean Webster’s beloved 1912 novel. With music and lyrics by Paul Gordon, the show premiered in 2009 and went on to earn acclaim for its intimate storytelling and charming score. Caird’s adaptation highlighted his gift for distilling complex narratives into emotionally resonant theatrical experiences, bringing a timeless romance to new audiences.

In addition to his stage work, John Caird has directed opera productions for major houses around the world and authored books on theatre, including Theatre Craft: A Director’s Practical Companion from A to Z. He has served as an associate director with the RSC, worked internationally in Japan and the United States, and continues to mentor young artists. His career reflects a deep commitment to the transformative power of theatre, and his contributions as both director and writer have left an indelible mark on stages across the globe.