Jameson Gilpatrick to Step Down as Bristol Riverside Theatre Managing Director

Bristol Riverside Theatre (BRT) has announced that Jameson Gilpatrick will step down as Managing Director. Mr. Gilpatrick, who has been with the theatre since 2014, has accepted a position with Steps on Broadway in New York City to serve as the organization's Finance Director. Amy Kaissar, BRT's former Managing Director, will assume the role of Interim Managing Director. The Board has formed a search committee who will conduct a regional and national search for a permanent Managing Director.

BRT Board President John B. Means, Ph.D. commented on Mr. Gilpatrick's contributions, "Jamie made significant and lasting contributions to the financial structure and fiscal health of the theatre as its Managing Director. During his tenure, he oversaw the completion of the new strategic plan, initiated new development efforts including a challenge grant and matching gift program, and establishment of a working capital reserve fund. Although we will certainly miss him at BRT, I am confident that Jamie will excel in his new endeavor."

Susan D. Atkinson, Founding Director, commented on Mr. Gilpatrick's contributions to the theatre noting, "During Jamie's tenure, we put in place strategic and financial initiatives that will support the theatre's ongoing strength and stability. We wish him the best of luck in his new position."

BRT Artistic Director Keith Baker also adds that "Jamie came to BRT as we were entering a period of terrific growth. Our 2014-2015 season broke box office records including a 17% increase in attendance. He has been instrumental in helping us realize our goals for growth and sustainability in both the near term and foreseeable future. At the same time, we are very fortunate that our previous Managing Director, Amy Kaissar is stepping into the role during this time of transition."

Since Ms. Kaissar's departure from BRT in 2014, she has been active in production and development of a number of regional and Broadway theater projects. She produced "The Heidi Chronicles" with Elisabeth Moss, Jason Biggs, and Bryce Pinkham and was involved in the capitalization of "Fun Home," the winner of the 2015 Tony Award for Best Musical, and "Shuffle Along" opening April 28, 2016, starring Audra McDonald, Brian Stokes Mitchell, and Billy Porter, directed by George C. Wolfe, and choreographed by Savion Glover. She also produced and directed the ongoing tour of "A Modest Suggestion," and currently is developing a new comedy and an immersive theatrical project about West Virginia Coal Mining. Locally, Ms. Kaissar has maintained her connection to BRT by serving as Co-Director for BRT's production of "An Enemy of the People" and directing two plays in BRT's America Rising new play development program. In addition, she has remained closely connected to BRT's ArtRageous Summer Theater Education program for at-risk Bristol youth.

"Amy's return to BRT as interim Managing Director will allow us to continue our move toward our 30th Anniversary season without breaking step. We are indeed fortunate to have someone so talented and who knows us so well willing to carry us forward," added Ms. Atkinson.

Since 1986, BRT has brought consistently acclaimed professional theatre to Bucks County and maintains a long-term commitment to finding and developing new plays. The theatre is the recipient of over 80 Barrymore Award nominations for Excellence in Theatre, given annually by Theatre Philadelphia. In addition to its Mainstage productions, the theatre serves as a cultural hub for the community, with such programs as children's theatre, community concerts and exhibitions of local visual arts. Currently under the direction of Artistic Director Keith Baker and Founding Director Susan D. Atkinson, BRT concludes its 29th season with Man of La Mancha. For information, visit www.brtstage.org.

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