ROCHESTER, N.Y.: After a nationwide search, Geva Theatre has introduced that James Haskins shall be its new govt director, efficient mid-January. Haskins involves Geva after most not too long ago serving as managing director of the Guthrie Theater in Minneapolis, changing Christopher Mannelli, who final yr left Geva for a place at Huntington Theatre in Boston. Beforehand, Haskins accomplished a 12-year tenure as managing director of the Wilma Theater in Philadelphia, in partnership with founding inventive director Blanka Zizka.

“I’m so delighted to have James bringing his spectacular expertise and experience to Geva, and may’t wait to companion with him as we head into the corporate’s second fifty years!,” mentioned Elizabeth Williamson, Geva’s inventive director, in an announcement.

Diane McCue, Geva’s search committee chair, added in an announcement, “His distinctive alignment with our imaginative and prescient and timing makes him the right match to guide Geva right into a future enriched with creativity, ardour, and group affect. His seasoned experience guarantees to be a guiding pressure as Geva continues its journey to encourage, entertain, and join with our group.”

Haskins started his work in theatre administration at Circle Repertory Firm and went on to work with a wide range of theatres in New York and Seattle, most notably the Seattle Group Theatre. Upon transferring to Philadelphia, he first labored as managing director of InterAct Theatre Firm, whereas additionally serving on the board of the Theatre Alliance of Higher Philadelphia as chair of the Barrymore Awards Oversight Committee. He subsequently moved into the chief director place of the Theatre Alliance earlier than becoming a member of the Wilma. As a theatre artist, James acted in lots of productions earlier than turning theatre administration and is most pleased with his directorial and dramaturgical work on the performs of his husband, Michael Whistler.

Haskins holds an MFA from the College of Washington and a BA from The School of Wooster in Ohio, the place he beforehand served on the alumni board. Following the pandemic shutdown, Haskins joined committees of the Minnesota Arts and Tradition Coalition and the Skilled Non-profit Theatre Coalition to assist construct help and funding for arts and tradition. In Philadelphia, he served on the Cultural Advisory Committee beneath former Mayor Michael Nutter, who officiated his wedding ceremony ceremony.

Stated Haskins in an announcement, “I’m honored to hitch inventive director Elizabeth Williamson, the board, and workers of Geva Theatre as its new govt director, and sit up for immersing myself into the Rochester group, the place I search to foster a tradition that values the enjoyment of reside efficiency.”

Based in 1972, Geva Theatre Middle is a nonprofit skilled theatre firm devoted to creating and producing skilled theatre productions, packages, and providers of a nationwide customary. The 516-seat Elaine P. Wilson Stage is residence to all kinds of performances, from musicals to American and world classics. The 180-seat Ron & Donna Fielding Stage is residence to Geva’s sequence of up to date drama, comedy, musical theatre, and new play improvement packages. As of 2022, the theatre’s funds was $7.7 million.

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