HAMILTON, Ontario May 26, 2022 – Theatre Aquarius is pleased to announce the appointment of Kelly Straughan to the position of Executive Director, effective July 2022. Straughan has over 15 years of leadership in the arts and culture sector, most recently as Executive Director at Workman Arts – a multidisciplinary arts and mental health organization that is part of the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health. Straughan is also the Board President of the Toronto Alliance of the Performing Arts (TAPA).
On announcing the news, Chair of the Board, Annette Hamm said, “Our selection committee was impressed by the caliber and quantity of applications for our Executive Director position. We can’t wait to have Kelly champion Aquarius’ bold ambition, innovation and enhanced access.”
“I am thrilled to be joining the Theatre Aquarius team and look forward to collaborating with Artistic Director Mary Francis Moore. We share a vision of theatre that is inclusive, accessible and a true reflection of the community it serves,” Straughan said. “There will be challenges ahead as we stabilize post-pandemic, but Hamilton is a dynamic city filled with talented artists, and we are poised for an exciting chapter as we enter our 50th anniversary. Theatre Aquarius is a point of connection and pride for the community, and it is my honour to work with the staff and board to facilitate exceptional programming. I’m grateful for the opportunity to join Theatre Aquarius at a pivotal moment in the arts sector. See you at the theatre!”
In February 2022, after over 20 years with Aquarius, Lorna Zaremba, Executive Director announced her retirement effective June 30, 2022. “The board and staff are grateful for Lorna’s dedication to and love of our Theatre. We can’t imagine the place without her guidance and care,” explained Hamm.
Theatre Aquarius is a recognized leader in Canadian theatre. A registered not-for-profit, Aquarius is dedicated to creating outstanding, accessible, live theatre and programming that entertains, challenges and educates.
For further information:
Sara Cotton, Marketing and Communications Director
905-522-7529
scotton@theatreaquarius.org