Shine Sets Exit Date as Artistic Director of Seattle Shakespeare Company

 

Stephanie Shine, after serving Seattle Shakespeare Company for 17 years (4 years as Education Director and 13 years as Artistic Director) will resign as Artistic Director on June 30, 2011. Shine's announcement comes on the heels of a record-breaking run of her production of The Threepenny Opera that was performed at the Intiman Theatre.

"It has been my pleasure and honor to serve this organization and to help it grow into its current artistically and financially strong position," said Shine. "If the organization did not enjoy this historically unprecedented position, my decision would be much more difficult." Asked about her future, Shine replied, "There are a number of other compelling theatre opportunities being made available to me around the country, and I have new additions to my family. I am looking forward to this next phase in my professional and personal life, as well as a continued artistic relationship with this much loved company and community."

Shine assumed the helm of Seattle Shakespeare Company after leading and advancing the company's Education Department. During her time as Artistic Director she weathered several artistic and financial storms with a canny and practical producer's mindset and unflagging belief in the value of classical theatre. In addition to The Threepenny Opera, Shine directed 16 productions including a lauded all-male version of The Taming of the Shrew, a popular and pirate-infused The Comedy of Errors, and the West Coast premiere of Swansong. She displayed her versatility as an actress by playing Regan in King Lear, Beatrice in Much Ado About Nothing, and Kate in The Taming of the Shrew as well as other parts in both leading and minor roles. She provided an artistic home for countless actors, designers and directors giving them the opportunity to hone their craft on some of the most challenging and timeless works available. She also helped grow the company from an organization that only produced three plays per season and struggled to keep its doors open, to one that year-round produces 7 plays at indoor and outdoor venues, sends two touring productions to cities across the state, and has a invigorating education program that serves more than 24,000 youth per year through programs in the schools and at the theatre.

"It pains many to see Stephanie leave, especially when the company is experiencing such tremendous triumphs," said Seattle Shakespeare Company's Board of Directors Chairman Phil Miller. "With the recent announcement of Managing Director John Bradshaw's departure, Stephanie saw this time as a unique and strategic opportunity for the Board of Directors to re-imagine Seattle Shakespeare Company's executive leadership and move forward with a master plan that will lead the organization to broader growth and stability. We are sad to lose her, but know that she is making the hard choice for both herself and the well-being of the company. We applaud her leadership, artistry and foresight, and desire success and happiness for her when she steps out on to her next challenge. We also look forward to having her back on our stage as a director or actress."

With the news of Shine's departure at the end of the company's fiscal year, the Board of Directors is re-evaluating Seattle Shakespeare Company's Executive Leadership and internal organizational structure. In the coming weeks they plan to move forward towards a permanent plan that will be in place by the start of the company's fiscal year on July 1, 2011.

 

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