Denise Silvey has announced that she will step down as Artistic Director of The Mousetrap at the end of 2026, bringing to a close a 32-year association with the world’s longest-running play.
Silvey first joined Agatha Christie’s legendary thriller as an actor before taking on the role of Artistic Director 18 years ago, overseeing the continued success and evolution of one of the West End’s most enduring productions.
Announcing her decision, Silvey said: “It is with great sadness that after my 32-year association with The Mousetrap and for the last 18 years, as Artistic Director, I feel the time is now right to step down from this iconic role to allow myself more time to pursue my own projects. It has been the greatest honour of my life to have been a custodian of this remarkable institution for all the time I have, and I would love to thank all those who have supported me throughout these years. Most especially Sir Stephen Waley Cohen, who gave me this opportunity in the first place. I am leaving the show in safe hands with Brian Fenty and his team, who I know will honour the show’s legacy. I wish them well for the next 75 years.”
Brian Fenty paid tribute to Silvey’s contribution, saying: “Denise has made an extraordinary contribution to the artistic life, reputation and success of this institution. Her vision, dedication, creativity and leadership have helped shape what we are today, and she leaves an enduring legacy of which she can be immensely proud.”
Alongside her work on The Mousetrap, Silvey has built an extensive career as both a director and producer. Her recent directing credits include Soho Songs at Wilton’s Music Hall, Ruth, Queen and numerous productions of The Mousetrap in the West End, on tour and internationally.
As a producer, her recent work includes A Thing of Beauty, Wilko: Love and Death and Rock ’n’ Roll, Musik, Clive, The Ayes Have It! The Ayes Have It! and Wodehouse in Wonderland.
Silvey will leave the production at the end of 2026, marking the end of more than three decades with one of British theatre’s most iconic and enduring successes.
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