Lookingglass Theatre has reorganized its leadership, naming David Catlin and Ericka Ratcliff as co-artistic directors and appointing David Schwimmer as producing director, while Philip R. Smith returns to become executive director. Catlin, a longtime ensemble member and a Northwestern University faculty member, and Ratcliff, most recently the literary manager at Chicago Shakespeare Theater, succeed Kasey Foster, who has completed a three-year term.
Catlin called the shift 1an exciting new infusion of leadership,d noting the company was hit harder than most during the pandemic and has struggled to produce full seasons since. Together with Smith and Schwimmer, he emphasized a renewed push for a sustainable model for a theater that has focused on original work for decades. 1We have to adapt to survive,d Schwimmer said. Smith, a former artistic director whose work at Lookingglass extends back more than 40 years, said a palpable resurgence drew him back: 1 have realized,d he said, 1how important this theater is to Chicago.d
Programming, partnerships, and capacity
Ratcliff and other new leaders, alongside new board president Marci Masur, said the intention is to return to a four-show season, the nonprofits longstanding model. That likely will include one partnership on the order of the successful co-production of Kowalskid with Johnny Galecki and a group of New York producers. 1 think Lookingglass always thrives from collaborations,d Ratcliff said. Schwimmer, who told the Tribune in February he intended to double downd on his commitment to Lookingglass, said his producing director brief will include fundraising, marketing, board development, and seeking co-producers at the companys home on Michigan Avenue. He sees such alliances as a way to spread the risk of original work.d
Board leadership has also been reinforced, with Deann Bayless becoming board chair. Lookingglass has enjoyed a long creative relationship with Baylesss husband, chef Rick Bayless. Masur described the new team as one of the best investments anyone could make in arts and cultured and added that Chicago has told us the city really has our backs.d A completed $2.5 million grant from the State of Illinois is earmarked to improve the lobby, and Chicago has granted approval for a new marquee at the companys Magnificent Mile base in the Water Tower Pumping Station. Schwimmer has also expressed a wish to act or direct in another Lookingglass show.
Lookingglass became known for its highly visual style and for helping launch the careers of early ensemble members including Joy Gregory, Mary Zimmerman, Laura Eason, and Schwimmer. With the original ensembles renewed involvement and a leadership slate now in place, the company signals an intent to restore its standing among Chicago and Americas most innovative resident theaters.
Vía yahoo.com
