OpenStage Theatre Welcomes New Managing Director

OpenStage Theatre announced last week that Elizabeth Zurn has accepted the position of Managing Director for the long-standing theatre company. The decision comes after two months of interviewing and vetting applicants from an impressive pool of national candidates. Elizabeth Zurn was previously at Creede Repertory Theatre, an award-winning theatre company located in the San Juan Mountains of

Colorado, before accepting the new position at OpenStage, where she will be responsible for audience development, strategic planning, fundraising and administration. Elizabeth will begin in mid-August, just prior to the opening of OpenStage's 2015-2016 season.

"We as a company are at a point where bringing Elizabeth on will allow OpenStage to accomplish things we couldn't before," said Denise Burson Freestone, OpenStage's Producing Artistic Director and Co-Founder. "Elizabeth and I will provide dual leadership for the Company as we move forward into the next 40 years. Her work will make all of our programming possible."

The announcement comes at a time when OpenStage is ramping up for their 2015-2016 season, which will consist of a mainstage season of six productions and (back by popular demand) two openstage etc performances at the Center for Fine Art Photography. All of this season's productions were decided upon by popular vote from community members.

"We're thrilled Elizabeth found us, and we found her. Her experience in developing
donor-centric programs for community theatres and enriching the audience experience will prove invaluable as OpenStage moves forward," said board president Kori Wilford.

Elizabeth's enthusiasm for the challenges of the new role is clear. "I was thrilled when I saw OpenStage was hiring a position that rang true with my training, experience and aspirations," said Elizabeth. "And I'm eager to become part of a community in Colorado where I can share my talents, and that shares my value of the human spirit."

OpenStage's 2015-2016 season is slated to open September 5th with Stage Kiss by award-winning playwright Sara Ruhl. For more information on the season visit openstage.com. Season tickets will be available beginning mid-August.

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