Steel River Playhouse Welcomes Gene Terruso as New Artistic Director

Steel River Playhouse has announced Gene Terruso as its new Artistic Director. Located in the heart of Pottstown's historic district, Steel River is a growing nonprofit performance and education facility. To introduce Mr. Terruso to the community, Steel River will be hosting a series of "meet and greets", January through March at The Playhouse. At these events, visitors will have a chance to mingle with the new Artistic Director and other staff, enjoy entertainment by select artists, engage in in a formal Q&A, and tour the facility.

Mr. Terruso is an incredibly accomplished director, producer, performer and instructor. His artistic background includes the following:

• Former President of the American Academy of Dramatic Arts, the nation's oldest acting conservatory whose alumni have been nominated for 96 Oscars, 245 Emmys and 86 Tonys.

• Former Director of Philadelphia's University of the Arts' famed Ira Brind School of Theater.

• Artistic Director of the prestigious Provincetown Playhouse, New York's oldest Off-Broadway theater, and Executive Director of the renowned 92nd Street Y's American Jewish Theatre (AJT).

• Founder of the popular "Broad Topic" series at the Merriam Theater, interviewing actors such as Kathleen Turner, Valerie Harper, Estelle Parsons, Sandra Bernhard, Richard Thomas, George Wendt and many other notable artists.

• Direct or of the School of Theatre at Northern Illinois University.

• Producing Artistic Director of the Chicago-based award winning professional company, SummerN.I.T.E. Theatre Festival.

• Director for numerous New York area theaters.

• Performer on Broadway and regional stages, as well as television and film.

• Instructor at Rutgers University, University of the Arts, Northern Illinois University, Yale University, Wickline Casting, and at various international festivals.

• Author of several plays and musicals.

Says Marta Kiesling, Executive Director, "This is a true turning point for Steel River Playhouse and the development of Pottstown as a hub of arts and culture for the Tri-County Region. Gene will be able to continue to build on the legacy of outgoing Artistic Director, Deborah Stimson-Snow, and grow our program offerings to the next level. We are incredibly excited about the future of Steel River."

For a full CV and a schedule of "meet and greets" with Mr. Terruso, visit steelriver.org.

About Steel River Playhouse: Steel River Playhouse is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) charitable education and performance facility that seeks to strengthen community, inspire creative exploration, educate, and entertain, through the presentation of quality performing arts events and education for diverse audiences. Designated as a "gateway" performing arts center, Steel River provides affordable, high quality performances, comprehensive educational offerings, and enriching volunteer opportunities in all aspects of theatre arts. The organization embraces emerging and established artists, and supports community by serving as a magnet destination for economic development and a platform for shared experiences by diverse audiences. Students and volunteers of all ages and backgrounds are encouraged to explore and grow their skills by working side-by-side with professional instructors, performers, directors, and designers. More information is available at www.steelriver.org.

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