It is business as usual at the National Theatre despite reports that some of its top brass are angry at Meghan Markle's decision to step back from her royal roles with Prince Harry. Artistic director Rufus Norris is finally speaking up over the controversy and he denies that there is a rift between the theatre and the Duchess of Sussex.
The director told The Telegraph that Meghan is still a "very engaged patron" of the National Theatre. Though the Sussexes will be officially off their royal duties by March 31, Norris said that everything is still business as usual.
The duchess has yet to give any indication that she is dropping her patronage. As far as Norris is concerned, the National Theatre is still looking forward to working with Prince Harry's wife, especially since she understands their craft.
Meghan and the people working at National Theatre, apparently, continue to have engaging discussions despite the announcement that they will no longer be called upon for royal duties. Norris said that they are even exploring new ideas for the members of the theatre.
Norris also denied the stories saying bosses of the National Theatre were fuming mad at Prince Harry and Meghan's decision to leave the U.K. The director said that the allegations are purely fiction.
Defending the duchess, Norris said that Meghan has been interested in her work at the National Theatre from the very beginning. She's also not about keeping up appearances as Meghan has never been keen on doing press nights and promotions.
Meghan became the royal patron of the National Theatre in January 2019, a patronage she inherited from Queen Elizabeth. She was also given honorary roles at Smart Works, the Association of Commonwealth Universities and the Mayhew around that same time.
The Duchess of Sussex is expected to also meet with the theatre people upon the Sussex's return to London this March for Commonwealth Day, at the behest of Queen Elizabeth. Incidentally, Norris renewed his contract with the National Theatre for the next five years as well and said that they are actually "very happy" with Meghan's patronage.
Meanwhile, Meghan and Prince Harry could be rebranding their Sussex Royal foundation as soon as they turn to private life. Buckingham Palace has apparently barred the couple from using the royal name, pending a few discussions and arrangements. Last week, the Sussexes were in Stanford to brainstorm with expects in launching their new foundation.
