Executive Director
Ext. 223 | kstraughan@theatreaquarius.org
Kelly Straughan has over 15 years of experience in leadership roles in the arts and culture sector. She is the former Executive Artistic Director at Workman Arts (WA) – the first and largest multidisciplinary arts and mental health organization in Canada. During her time at Workman Arts Kelly facilitated the launch of Workman Arts’ brand new state-of-the-art facilities in the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health. She also spearheaded the $1 million dollar Slaight Family mental health initiative that grew WA’s Art Training Programs across the Greater Toronto Area.
Prior to her time at Workman Arts Kelly was the Executive Director of the Toronto Fringe Festival. During her time at the Fringe she expanded programming to include the Theatre Entrepreneur Network and Training Program, the Teen Fringe Program and the Fringe Kids Club. She also led the charge towards two record breaking festivals back-to-back. Kelly was also the President of the Canadian Association of Fringe Festivals.
Kelly previously held the position of Associate Artistic Director at Nightwood Theatre and was the Assistant Artistic Director at Tarragon Theatre for three seasons. Kelly is the currently Board President of the Toronto Alliance of the Performing Arts (TAPA).