Lyric Theatre's Michael Baron Named Recipient of 2016 Governor's Arts Award

Oklahoma Lt. Gov. Todd Lamb on Wednesday recognized Lyric Theatre's Producing Artistic Director Michael Baron as a recipient of the 2016 Governor's Arts Award. The Community Service Award was presented to Baron during the 41st annual ceremony at the State Capitol Rotunda.

Baron, along with 12 other individuals and 8 organizations, received the state's top arts honor during the ceremony. Recipients were selected from nominations submitted by appointed members of the Governor's Arts Awards Selection Committee. The award recognizes longtime leadership and significant contributions to the arts.

In July, Baron directed a special production of FIDDLER ON THE ROOF at the Civic Center Music Hall. His version of the classic musical brought deaf and hearing actors together in a unique production and featured American Sign Language interpreters on stage. The ceremony Wednesday reunited four FIDDLER cast members, who provided musical entertainment for the gathered crowd.

"Approaches like what Lyric Theatre of Oklahoma did (this summer) are important reminders of the role that the arts often play in communities," said Nancy Leonard, chairwoman of the Oklahoma Arts Council, who also served as the ceremony emcee. "It's a pleasure for us to highlight such an innovative and inclusive program."

Dr. Eric Friedman, a Lyric Theatre board member and FIDDLER cast member, praised Baron's leadership of the organization, asserting that "with arts education programs disappearing across the state due to budget cuts, it's especially important to make local theatre more inclusive and accessible to everyone."

Baron came to Lyric Theatre in June 2010 from Signature Theatre in Washington, D.C., where he served as associate director. Baron received his bachelor of arts degree from Wake Forest University in North Carolina and his master's degree in fine arts directing at Trinity Repertory Conservatory in Providence, R.I.

He has directed dozens of productions across the country, including A CHRISTMAS CAROL at Ford's Theatre. At Lyric, Baron has created his own adaptation of Charles Dickens' classic, which this year features a brand new set and dazzling new costumes. LYRIC'S A CHRISTMAS CAROL runs through Dec. 24. Tickets can be purchased online at www.LyricTheatreOKC.com or by calling (405) 524-9312.

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