Andrew’s ‘Really Useful Group’ Appoints New CEO & Chairman

The Really Useful Group (RUG), owned by Andrew Lloyd Webber, exists to produce, license and promote his shows and music globally, and today, RUG has announced the appointment of a new Chief Executive Officer and Non-Executive Chairman. Here’s some more information on the new additions:

Charles Farmer is the former Executive Vice President of MGM International Television Productions. Joining RUG as CEO (a newly created role), Charles will work closely with RUG’s President, Jessica Koravos, who has led global theatrical licensing for over 9 years. Beginning on 8th March 2022, Charles has worked in a variety of roles in TV, cinema and more.

Charles said: “I am delighted to be joining Andrew, David and Jessica and the wider RUG team, a diverse group of very talented individuals, at such an interesting time in the business’ growth. Working closely with Andrew and his truly unique body of work, I share his excitement for the major ambitions we have for RUG to expand into more projects for broadcast, streaming and film and TV platforms as well as other areas of growth.”

David Chance, who joined the RUG board in April 2021, will become the Non-Executive Chairman. David brings considerable board experience to RUG, having worked extensively in Pay TV and serving as a Non-Executive Director on the boards of BSkyB Group plc, O2 plc, ITV plc and Intertrust Inc. and more.

David said: “I am very excited about the opportunities to further develop and grow RUG’s business and believe Charlie’s addition will add tremendous strength and breadth to the excellent management team already in place.” 

Speaking on the new additions, Andrew said: “The Covid-19 pandemic forced us all to look for new ways to develop, produce and share our work. While I am thrilled to see live theatre firmly back on its feet, we also have major ambitions in the worlds of TV, film, the metaverse and beyond. I am delighted to have Charlie and David on board to help us achieve new and exciting things. As he steps down as our Chairman, I also want to acknowledge the immeasurable contribution of Mark Wordsworth, the Chair of our board for 15 years.” 

About The Really Useful Group

The Really Useful Group is currently producing Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Cinderella in the West End in London, as well as The Phantom of the Opera in London and on Broadway, its longest ever running show. In addition, productions of The Phantom of the Opera, Joseph And The Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat, Jesus Christ Superstar, School of Rock – The Musical, Starlight Express, Evita and many others are currently playing and touring in all major markets across the world. Each year, across the globe, The Really Useful Group’s content reaches and is shared by hundreds of millions of people. 

Welcome to RUG, Charles and David!