Lenny & Tricia Bart Depart from 12 Miles West Theatre Company

After nearly two decades of working in New Jersey's professional theaters, one of the state's well-known theatrical duos Lenny Bart and his wife Tricia are taking their East Coast savvy further west. Probably best known in the theater community for his stewardship of 12 Miles West Theatre Company serving as Artistic Director from 2001-2010, Bart's new role will be serving as the Managing Artistic Director for Quincy Community Theatre in Quincy, IL.
 
Since passing on the reigns of 12 Miles West in 2010, Bart has served as the Artistic Director of Pushcart Players, a professional touring company performing Theater for Young Audiences. "It was a difficult decision to make," says Bart referring to his new position, "but I was made an offer too good to pass up! The programming in Quincy is extremely exciting and will again afford me the opportunity to produce, direct, and bring a wide variety of theater to another community that deeply loves and supports the arts. We will sorely miss our NJ theater friends and are grateful to have been a part of such a warm, supportive group of truly smart, creative people." Pushcart Player's Executive Director Ruth Fost commented, "We are deeply grateful to Lenny for the energy, enthusiasm, and expertise and for the launching of new directions that he has provided in his brief time with us. He came with a much-needed burst of energy and that energy has indeed breathed new life into this organization. There is no question that his presence will continue to be felt here for a long time to come." Bart is also well-known for his work both on and off stage with other theater companies here. He has acted or directed for Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey, Surflight Theatre, Playwrights Theatre, NJ Rep and for the past six seasons has performed with the Women's Theater Company.
 
Quincy Community Theatre is one of Illinois' oldest and largest community theaters. It is currently housed in a 500-seat, state of the art facility. Originally established in 1929, QCT serves as a showcase for community talent and as a major theatrical resource for the surrounding tri-state area, offering five major productions, two student productions, and a variety of workshops and classes each year. The organization provides an outlet for community members to display their talents in quality live theatre with a wide array of productions.
 
Joining Bart in his move is his wife Tricia, also well-known to New Jersey's professional theater community. Since joining 12 Miles West Theatre Company in 1999, she has served in numerous positions including most recently Managing Director until June, 2010. In addition to her work offstage, Tricia received critical acclaim for her performances at 12 Miles West and has been a member of Pushcart Players professional touring company since 2001 bringing the highest quality theater to schools throughout New Jersey, the tri-state area and across the country. Tricia has performed with many of our state's professional theater companies including: Surflight Theatre, The Bickford Theatre, NJ Rep, The Women's Theater Co. and Dreamcatcher Rep. and has been a teaching artist with 12 Miles West, New Jersey School of Dramatic Arts, Playwrights Theatre, Pushcart Players, and JCC MetroWest. Also a certified clinical Aromatherapist, Tricia will continue her healing work in Quincy.
 
While at 12 Miles West, the Barts eradicated past debt, expanded programming and partnered with many diverse organizations such as: Pushcart Players, New Jersey School of Dramatic Arts, Lunatic Fringe, Mosaic Dance Theatre and Teatro Sí, as well as presenting a diverse Guest Artist series and providing a home for various arts groups to rent. Their departure from the local theater scene will certainly be deeply felt. "The excitement of our new journey is intermingled with the sadness of leaving behind so many talented artists and administrators in the Arts that have become our friends and family," said Tricia Bart. The Gem City is indeed lucky to have this talented, committed couple joining their community.