ONE of the country's leading stage directors, who has produced modern adaptations of classic opera, has been appointed as a theatre's artistic director.

Chris Monks will succeed Sir Alan Ayckbourn at the Stephen Joseph Theatre, in Scarborough, North Yorkshire.

Mr Monks, who will take up the position in January next year, is a freelance director and writer, and is an associate director of the Royal Exchange Theatre, in Manchester.

Born and brought up in Sheffield, he studied in Leeds, and has won praise for his adaptations of operas such as Johann Strauss's Die Fledermaus, The Pirates of Penzance and Mozart's The Magic Flute.

Sue Truefitt, chairwoman of the theatre's board of trustees, said: "We had quite long interviewing process to replace Sir Alan, and we are delighted to have appointed Chris.

"We are very much looking forward to working with him.

"He has a lot of experience, and I think he will build on what we have already got at the theatre, as well as bringing something of his own."

Sir Alan Ayckbourn has been the theatre's artistic director for more than 30 years, during which time he has become one of the country's most prolific comedy playwrights, penning more than 70 plays.

He will continue to direct revivals of his plays, as well as premiering new work at the Scarborough theatre.

For more information about the theatre, visit sjt.uk.com