Balagan Theatre Welcomes Danielle Franich as New Executive Director

The Board and staff of Balagan Theatre announce the appointment of new Executive Director Danielle Franich, effective July 21, 2014. Franich is a Seattle native who has worked with Balagan Theatre for the last three years as Production Manager and most recently as Managing Director. She has collaborated with all directors, designers, artists, and staff that have come through Balagan since Spring Awakening. She also works with Contemporary Classics and Seattle Theatre Group's education department. Franich has been a production manager, stage manager, director and designer in the Seattle community since 2008 and is honored to be stepping into the role. With the support of the Balagan Board of Directors, Franich will continue to cultivate the community that Balagan has created; developing new shows, promoting new artists, instigating new collaborations, and keeping productions accessible to engage and encourage new audiences.

Franich replaces Jake Groshong, who founded and was the Executive Director of Balagan Theatre since 2006. His leadership and vision have lead Balagan to its incredible successes over the last 8 years. He has directed many of Balagan's best received shows and his production of Urinetown opens August 8th. "It's been a dream come true to have gotten Balagan to this point," says Groshong, "and I know the company is moving forward in the best hands possible with Danielle Franich."

Louis Hobson served as Artistic Director for Balagan's 2013/14 Season and directed the acclaimed production of Carrie starring Tony Award-Winner Alice Ripley. "Jake and I are stepping down from the staff, but in no way are we leaving," says Hobson, "we'll still be around and helping Balagan in any way we are able." Groshong and Hobson will be stepping away from their positions as Balagan's Executive and Artistic Directors and into management roles at a newly formed theatrical investment and licensing company that will continue to work with Balagan on their mutual mission to bring exciting theatre to the next generation of theatre goers. They will share offices and continue to work with the new leadership on the future of the company.

"I am honored and excited to step into some very large shoes as Balagan's new Executive Director, "says Franich. "Balagan has evolved into a strong community with fantastic ambitions and engaging performances. I am looking forward to an incredible year of shows. I know we will continue to produce the kind of work that challenges, delights, and surprises our community."

About Balagan Theatre - Balagan Theatre strives to create smart and fearless theatre of the highest artistic quality to cultivate the next generation of theatre-goers and theatre-makers. From Footlight-award winning shows like Avenue Q and Dr. Horrible's Sing-Along Blog to "Best of the Year" productions like Spring Awakening and August: Osage County, Balagan is known for consistent artistic success no matter what genre or period of theatre is being tackled. With a mission to develop new audiences for theatre, the entire community finds something for them at Balagan. For more information, visit www.balagantheatre.org.

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