Walkley-award winning journalist John Shand and senior arts writer and author Joyce Morgan will join forces to form The Sydney Morning Herald's new-look theatre reviewing team.

Shand, who is also a playwright, librettist and drummer, has written on music and theatre for the Herald for more than 24 years. He won the Arts Journalism Award at the Walkleys earlier this year.

Morgan is a former Herald arts editor, Getty Arts Journalism Fellow and author of two books, the most recent a biography of artist Martin Sharp.

"We're delighted Joyce and John will be bringing their authoritative and well-respected voices to our comprehensive theatre coverage," said Life Editor Monique Farmer.

"The Herald remains committed to bringing readers the very best arts writing and analysis every day."

The move comes after the Herald's theatre critic Jason Blake departed to concentrate on a new online venture.

"I'd like to thank Jason for his contribution and wish him all the best for his future endeavours," said Farmer.