Harold David Appointed Deputy Director of Avignon Festival & Compagnies

The Board of Directors of Avignon Festival & Compagnies (AF&C) — the coordinating body of the Off Avignon Festival — has announced the appointment of Harold David as its new Deputy Director, following a vote held on October 7, 2025.

This appointment marks the conclusion of a recruitment process led by a joint working group composed of representatives from both sectors of the association: production companies and theatres.

Harold David officially assumed his new role on November 3. His primary mission is to implement AF&C’s strategic objectives in alignment with the three-year associative project approved by its members earlier this year.

A seasoned professional in the performing arts, Harold David brings deep insight into the Off Avignon Festival, having been part of it since 1999 in multiple capacities — as an artist, producer, distributor, and venue operator. From 2022 to 2025, he also served as Co-President of AF&C, on a volunteer basis.

Beyond his involvement in Avignon, David has held several leadership positions, including Director of the Prix du Jeune Écrivain association in Muret (2018–2022), Director of the Théâtre de Die – Scène conventionnée Art en Territoire (2010–2018), and Director of the Festival Est-Ouest (2008–2018).

His appointment strengthens the organizational development AF&C has been pursuing over the past three years. It also positions the association to face the key milestones of 2026, including the renewal of its associative project, the 60th anniversary of the Off Avignon Festival, and the expansion of collaborations with the Festival d’Avignon.

“Harold’s extensive experience and deep understanding of the Off Avignon Festival will be invaluable as we prepare for the next stage of AF&C’s evolution,” said interim Co-Presidents Sophie-Anne Lecesne and Laurent Rochut.

Following his appointment, Harold David stepped down as Managing Director of Atypik Production-Diffusion, the company operating three venues in Avignon. He no longer holds any theatre directorships or representative roles within AF&C or any professional or union organizations.

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