ACCLAIMED British-Asian film-maker Madani Younis has been appointed the new artistic director at the Bush Theatre.

The 31-year-old will take up the position on New Year's Day 2012 after incumbent director Josie Rourke leaves to take over the Donmar Warehouse.

Mr Younis is currently artistic director of Freedom Studios, in Bradford, which has collaborated with the Bush Theatre over the past two years.

He originally trained in film and his debut Ellabellapumpanella, commissioned by the UK Film Council, was screened at the 2007 Cannes Film Festival and he won the Decibel Award at the South Bank Awards Show in 2006.

He said: "I am delighted and honoured to be joining the Bush Theatre at this significant time in its history. During the past two years, through my work at Freedom Studios, I have had the privilege to build a strong working relationship with the Bush in supporting the development of new writers, and look forward to continuing that work, and building the company’s future in its new home."

As director of the Red Ladder Theatre Company's Asian Theatre School, Mr Younis staged seven productions between 2002 and 2007 when he took over Freedom Studios.

They include national tours with the Studio Theatre Damascus, from Syria, with their 2004 production Freeworld and a nationwide tour with 2007 show Doors.

He will oversee the theatre's transition into their new home at the old Shepherd's Bush Library, in Uxbridge Road and outgoing director Ms Rourke feels he will be a major asset to the Bush Theatre.

She said: "This is a deeply inspiring appointment at a big moment in the Bush’s history. I have been delighted with the Bush’s collaborations with Madani and Freedom Studios over the past two years.

"It’s wonderful to know that in its 40 th year, and its new home, the Bush will receive such brilliant leadership."

Nick Starr, chairman of Bush Theatre, said: "In Madani the Bush has found an Artistic Director with the confidence, vision and leadership to take the company forwards. It’s an exciting appointment and I very much look forward to working with him."