Honolulu Theatre for Youth Appoints New Managing Director

The Board of Trustees of Honolulu Theatre for Youth has named Becky Dunning to the position of managing director, effective May 16. She succeeds Louise King Lanzilotti, who resigned in late 2010.

As managing director, Dunning will be a member of the HTY's unique triumvirate management structure, which places the managing, artistic and drama education departments on equal footing. She will lead alongside Artistic Director Eric Johnson and Drama Education Director Daniel A. Kelin, II, focusing on the business aspect of running the theatre, including administration, development and community relations.

"I am honored to have been selected to be part of the management team of this incredible organization, and I look forward to working with the board of directors and staff to insure that this valuable community resource continues to thrive," Dunning said. "Live theatre has always been an important part of my life. I want to make sure that Hawaii's children can enjoy the magic of live performance."

Dunning was formerly the director of operations and advancement for Blue Planet Foundation. Her experience in the Hawaii non-profit and theatre arts field includes positions as vice president of development at PBS Hawaii, executive director of the Hawaii Youth Symphony, and administrative director at Manoa Valley Theatre.

She volunteers extensively in the local theatre community and has participated in all aspects of theatrical production, including stage management, assistant director, actor, and technician, for more than 50 dramas and musicals at Manoa Valley Theatre, Diamond Head Theatre and Starving Artists Theatre Company. Dunning holds a BA in English from the University of Hawaii at Manoa and is a resident of Honolulu.

HTY President Van Cornwell said, "We are thrilled to have a new managing director as accomplished and capable as Becky Dunning. After an exhaustive national search, the board unanimously agreed that the talents and vision of this local arts & nonprofit professional are ideally suited to guide the organization forward."

Eric Johnson added, "As an active member of the local theatre community and a leader in non-profit management in Hawaii, Becky Dunning brings great insight and leadership to the organization. We are delighted to have such a strong partner to help lead and shape the next phase in our organization's 57-year history."

For more information, to receive a season brochure, order tickets to a show or learn more about HTY's educational programming call 839-9885. Tickets may also be ordered online at www.htyweb.org. Honolulu Theatre for Youth is Hawaii's non-profit professional theatre company providing theatre and drama education programs that make a difference in the lives of Hawaii's young people and families. Founded in 1955, HTY is recognized the world over as one of America's most honored theatres.

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