Theatre Bay Area selected Sean Fenton as its new Executive Director. The national search was conducted by ALJP Consulting.
“I’m thrilled for the opportunity to serve, especially during this time of immense change. The COVID-19 pandemic has hit the arts community particularly hard, and the challenges facing theatre companies and individual artists are many,” said Fenton. “But this community is tenacious and endlessly supportive of each other. We will come together. And with sustainability and growth in mind, and equity, diversity, and inclusion at the center of our values, I am confident the Bay Area theatre community will emerge stronger than ever.”
“As we being this new chapter of TBA, we are confident Sean will drive forward our commitment to racial justice and advancement of the Bay Area theatre community,” said Theatre Bay Area Board President-Dr. Anne W. Smith. “Staff, board, and community members have been inspired by Sean’s deep passion for the theatre in the Bay Area, as well as his excellent ability to listen deeply, respond authentically ,and build productive relationships.”
Fenton graduated from Stanford University with a BA in Cultural and Social Anthropology. He’s been a member of the Bay Area theatre community since 1998. He’s worked as an actor, director, educator, administrator, researcher and consultant. Fenton built his work experiences at TheatreWorks Silicon Valley, San Francisco Playhouse, Crowded Fire Theater, 42nd Street Moon, Ferocious Lotus Theatre Company, Bay Area Children’s Theatre, Kaiser Permanente Educational Theatre, and TYA/USA.
“All these experiences give Sean insight into the unique challenges and opportunities present in this region of California,” Smith added. “We were impressed by his intensive knowledge of the field, fearless commitment to racial justice, and collaborative spirit.”
“I’m thrilled by this choice,” said Brad Erickson, who managed TBA from 2003 to 2021 before retiring. “Sean is the right person, at just the right time.”
“For too long, the theatre sector has fallen short of being inclusive for all, despite even the best intentions,” said Fenton. “But this TBA team and community are ready for change. Let’s actively center historically marginalized voices, make amends with each other, and come together to build a more just and equitable theatre. Theatre Bay Area is for everyone.”
Theatre Bay Area was founded in 1976; it’s mission is to unite, strengthen, promote, and advance the theatre community in the San Francisco Bay Area. The organization works on behalf of its conviction that the performing arts are an integral part of the public good, healthy for democratic society, and invaluable in regards to personal enrichment and growth.