Capital Stage Welcomes New Artistic Director

After fifteen years of growth and success in building a strong arts organization in Northern California, Founding Artistic Director Stephanie Gularte stepped down as Capital Stage's leader in 2013. Co-Founder and husband Jonathan Williams then was chosen by the board to take the helm of Sacramento's bold, thought provoking, non-profit professional theatre company. In the time that Jonathan has led the company we have seen significant growth in our subscription base, our educational programming, and in our commitment to bringing new works to the Sacramento Area. He has also been responsible for facility improvements including the expansion and development of our back patio.

In January of this year, Stephanie was named the new Artistic Director of American Stage Theatre Company in St. Petersburg, Florida. Soon after, Jonathan announced that he would be joining her in Florida in the fall of 2016. The Capital Stage Board of Directors then launched a nationwide search for the next Artistic Director. From the search came several dozen candidates and interviews. Michael Stevenson emerged as a forward-thinking, passionate leader, and the clear choice for Capital Stage's future.

"I've been a part of Capital Stage for ten years now and grown up with Jon, Steph and Peter. It's a real honor to pick up their vision and go forward with it." - Michael Stevenson

Michael has worked as an actor and director for Capital Stage since its early days as a professional theatre company. He most recently directed the smash hit IDEATION in January of 2015, and played the role of Stiva in ANNA KARENINA in October of 2014. Other directing credits include: CLYBOURNE PARK, MAURITIUS, ERRATICA, and LES LIAISONS DANGEREUSES at Capital Stage. Directing credits elsewhere include: THE CASTLE OF OTRANTO, Orlando Shakespeare Theatre; WITTENBERG and THE ODD COUPLE, Perseverance Theatre; THE GRAPES OF WRATH, PRIDE & PREJUDICE, OF MICE AND MEN and NOISES OFF, Sacramento Theatre Company; BECKY'S NEW CAR, BOOM, BOSTON MARRIAGE, JACK & JILL, JUNIE B. JONES JINGLE BELLS BATMAN SMELLS, and THE LAST 5 YEARS, B Street Theatre. He has taught at CSU Sacramento and served as co-director of the B Street Theatre Conservatory.

Originally from Chicago, Michael received his M.F.A. from American Conservatory Theatre where he met his wife, actress and teacher Jamie Jones. The two moved to NYC to pursue theatre and have since worked together and apart on numerous projects across the country. Since returning to the Sacramento area the couple has been a force of artistic talent, helping to raise the bar of quality storytelling and entertainment in the community.

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