Michael Baron Named Producing Artistic Director of Lyric Theatre of Oklahoma

Lyric Theatre of Oklahoma's Board of Directors voted to promote Michael Baron, Lyric's artistic director, to producing artistic director. Baron began his tenure with Lyric in July of 2010, and continues to grow the organization with his leadership.

"Michael has all the qualities you could want for a producing artistic director," said Dr. David Flesher, president of Lyric's board of directors. "He is a man with a vision, a smart mind for the business side of theatre, and a great artistic talent as a director. His influence and work has strengthened the organization over the past five years, and the board looks forward to seeing what he will accomplish in this new role," said Flesher.

Baron moved to Oklahoma from Washington, D.C five years ago, and has continued to direct productions nationwide while holding his position with Lyric. He received the 2012 Helen Hayes Award for Outstanding Direction of a Resident Musical in Washington, D.C. for Adventure Theatre's production of A YEAR WITH FROG AND TOAD, and most recently directed PETER AND THE STARCATCHER at ZACH Theatre in Austin, Texas.

Since his arrival in Oklahoma, Baron has directed 15 productions for Lyric, including AN INSPECTOR CALLS, A LITTLE NIGHT MUSIC, and LES MISERABLES. Baron also directed and adapted Lyric's annual production of LYRIC'S A CHRISTMAS CAROL. He has championed Lyric's new works initiative, and will direct the world premiere of Adam Gwon and Julia Jordan's new musical, BERNICE BOBS HER HAIR, at Lyric's Plaza Theatre in October of this year.

"Michael has been a huge asset to Lyric, and to the Oklahoma arts community as a whole," said Paula Stover, Lyric's managing director. "He is a joy to work with, as a fellow leader and co-worker, and Lyric's staff is excited to have him leading Lyric into the future."

Stover will continue as Lyric's managing director until her retirement in 2016.

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