Seattle Public Theater Announces Appointment of New Executive and Artistic Directors

Seattle Public Theater is excited to announce changes in its leadership to help build on its record-setting 2015-2016 year of artistic and educational success.

After 16 years as Artistic and Education Director, Shana Bestock is stepping away from Seattle Public Theater. During her tenure, Bestock focused on bringing new plays to Seattle, increased opportunities for local playwrights, and gave youth opportunities to grow through theatre. "SPT has supported my vision of what theatre could do: nurture communities, nurture children and youth, nurture ideas, nurture artists, nurture diverse people and the interconnection of cultures," says Bestock. "I am so proud of what we have achieved together, honored by the opportunities I've been afforded, and I step away from a robust organization full of potential."

Associate Artistic Director Kelly Kitchens has accepted the role of Interim Artistic Director, beginning December 1st. Kitchens' distinguished career as an artistic leader, director, and educator will be key as the organization diversifies its programming and focuses its mission to serve new audiences and creative talent. "I am proud to have been a part of Seattle Public Theater's past and present; and I am excited about being a part of its future," says Kitchens. "I believe in the power of art. I believe it can open a heart, broaden a mind, spark a conversation, and create change. I am honored and committed to serving alongside the remarkable team of staff, artists, and educators who will continue to foster the growth and increase the impact of this incredible organization."

Charlotte Tiencken joins Kitchens on Seattle Public Theater's leadership team as its new Interim Executive Director. Tiencken's long record of success managing arts organizations includes tenures at Book-It Repertory Theatre in Seattle, Jacob's Pillow Dance Festival in Massachusetts, and Tacoma Little Theatre in Tacoma, among others. "I am thrilled to be joining the team at Seattle Public Theater as Interim Executive Director," says Tiencken. "SPT has had a long tradition of producing exceptional theatre for audiences in Seattle, and I am pleased the Board has asked me to take the helm at this important juncture in the life of SPT. I look forward to working with the staff and Board in continuing to raise the bar of excellence for theatre in Seattle and to produce exciting, new and adventurous work for adults and youth."

Tiencken's appointment follows a months-long national search led by Seattle Public Theater's Board. "Charlotte and Kelly are the right leadership team to build on Seattle Public Theater's artistic and educational success," says Board President Christopher Mascis. "We're grateful for the years of superb work Shana has given to Seattle audiences and young people and we're excited to move forward as a center of art and arts education in Seattle for a long time to come."

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