After just over three years as Centerstage Foundation’s executive director, Richard Parison is moving on.
A press release today from Centerstage said that during a recent strategic planning process, “we had many conversations with Richard about the next steps for the organization and his interest to return to his previous work of producing and directing professional theater. In the last several months he has had several opportunities to direct and work on theatrical projects with colleagues here and across the country. With the strategic plan now completed, the Executive Committee and Richard came to the mutual agreement that is the perfect time to pursue these artistic endeavors and to begin a transition to a new executive leader. Richard will continue to serve as Executive Director until December 15, when he will begin the next exciting chapter of his career in the performing arts.”
The release added that “The Foundation Board believes that CenterStage is clearly headed in the right direction.”
“While our decision is bittersweet, I have confidence in the strength and resolve of the Foundation, its board of trustees, staff members and volunteers. Having led the strategic planning process with a number of stakeholders, I am keenly aware that the plan lays out a future which is certain and strong,” said Richard Parison. “On a personal note, for three years, I have had the privilege of leading the Foundation staff and trustees on a number of exciting and surprising journeys – I know that CenterStage’s future is limitless and full of potential for Richmond and the community. It has been an honor to work alongside you and to steward the mission of this amazing ensemble of venues. I look forward to returning as an audience member at so many special events and performances.”
An experienced theatrical producer, Parrison had left the Barrington Stage Company in Pittsfield, Mass for the Richmond job in 2010. Attempts by Style Weekly to reach him this morning were unsuccessful.
Full version of press release:
RICHMOND – Richmond CenterStage released the following statement regarding the transition to a new executive director.Richmond CenterStage has come a long way in its four years as the center of Richmond’s performing arts and home to performing arts organizations and arts educational programs. CenterStage’s success to date reflects the enormous hard work and major accomplishments of the Foundation’s Board and Staff, especially Richard Parison, who has served as the Foundation’s Executive Director and recently led its strategic planning process. The Foundation Board believes that CenterStage is clearly headed in the right direction.
The strategic planning process afforded everyone an opportunity to consider where we’ve been and where we’re going. During this process we had many conversations with Richard about the next steps for the organization and his interest to return to his previous work of producing and directing professional theater. In the last several months he has had several opportunities to direct and work on theatrical projects with colleagues here and across the country. With the strategic plan now completed, the Executive Committee and Richard came to the mutual agreement that is the perfect time to pursue these artistic endeavors and to begin a transition to a new executive leader. Richard will continue to serve as Executive Director until December 15, when he will begin the next exciting chapter of his career in the performing arts.
“We are grateful for Richard’s leadership over the past three years as he has expanded our artistic programming, including the US TRUST Life is a Cabaret Series, the monthly “Comedy Tonight!” Series and the Wells Fargo Bring the Kids! Family Series. The performers he helped bring to our stages entertained – and even wowed – audiences,” said Steve Rogers, Chairman of CenterStage Foundation Board of Directors. “He is a strong advocate for the performing arts and he will leave a lasting impression on our organization. We wish him the very best in his next artistic endeavor, which includes directing “Fiddler on the Roof” later this month at Virginia Repertory Theatre here in Richmond. We are appreciative of his dedication to Richmond CenterStage and his help to keep CenterStage running at full-speed.”
“While our decision is bittersweet, I have confidence in the strength and resolve of the Foundation, its board of trustees, staff members and volunteers. Having led the strategic planning process with a number of stakeholders, I am keenly aware that the plan lays out a future which is certain and strong,” said Richard Parison. “On a personal note, for three years, I have had the privilege of leading the Foundation staff and trustees on a number of exciting and surprising journeys – I know that CenterStage’s future is limitless and full of potential for Richmond and the community. It has been an honor to work alongside you and to steward the mission of this amazing ensemble of venues. I look forward to returning as an audience member at so many special events and performances.”
CenterStage Foundation will immediately begin the process of evaluating the needed skills and experience in its next executive leader and then will commence the search process.
