Over the past three years ArtsWest has gone through some major leadership changes. In 2013, ArtsWest welcomed Laura Lee as the new Managing Director and Mathew Wright soon followed as the Playhouse and Gallery’s new Artistic Director.
Together, Wright and Lee have worked to strengthen ArtsWest’s infrastructure, expand education programs, and become a major player in the Seattle and regional theatre scene. Patrons and fans of the theatre have noticed the innovative changes Wright and Lee have made over the years, which are reflected in the exceptional quality of theatre ArtsWest produces.
ArtsWest has also experienced some major changes in just the last few months! Makaela Pollock, a director and program leader in the Seattle area, who has worked extensively with ArtsWest in the past as our Education program coordinator, has signed on as the new Production Associate. Well-loved in the Seattle theatre community, Makaela has brought her strong communication, organization, and artistic skills into the ArtsWest office and rehearsal room to ensure smooth sailing for every main stage production and education initiative.
Soon after welcoming Makaela into the family, ArtsWest experienced a shift in development leadership as well. Fairly new to the Seattle Theatre Community, Laura Owens came on board as ArtsWest’s newest Development Officer. In her new role as Development Officer, Laura is excited to strengthen ArtsWest’s current relationships with community organizations and audience members and to create new relationships within the community as well.
ArtsWest’s newest recruit, Michael Wallenfals, has taken the helm of the marketing department and has jumped right in: he has crafted beautiful production imagery for Ghosts, created exciting sneak peek videos, and conducted out-reach efforts to underrepresented communities.
Our theatre’s team reflects ArtsWest’s ever-increasing impact on our community and beyond. With new people come new ideas and new opportunities, for both our team and those we serve. We’re excited to welcome these talented individuals to our crew for our 2016-2017 Uncharted journey as we set sail for the future.