ATP welcomes new Executive & Artistic Director

A new Executive and Artistic Director is taking the reins at Alberta Theatre Projects.

On May 24, Anne Brown, Chair of the Board of Directors of Alberta Theatre Projects, announced that Darcy Evans will be stepping into the role. Evans was the unanimous choice for the board after an extensive national search.

“ATP was searching for a leader with new energy and a bold vision for contemporary theatre in Calgary,” said Ms. Brown. “As we head towards our 50th Anniversary season, we believe that Darcy Evans will bring fresh ideas and innovative new ways to tell stories on the Martha Cohen stage.”

Elena Juatco and Jeff Madden in ‘I Love You Because’ directed by Darcy Evans. Two Dora Award nominations including Outstanding Production. 14 Broadway World nominations including Best Director.

Evans has more than 20 years of experience in theatre, as a director, actor, and administrator with professional theatres across North America – including Broadway, US National Tours, and nine seasons at the Stratford Festival.

‘Stealing Sam’ written and performed by Steven Gallagher, directed by Darcy Evans. Best of the Toronto Fringe & Patrons Pick Awards. Awarded Best Drama by the United Solo Festival out of 130 plays from 5 continents. Outstanding Direction & Production 2013 Toronto Fringe – NOW Magazine. Photo: Rachel McCaig

Evans’ role is the consolidation of the Artistic Director and Executive Director roles, to provide the company with a single leader to manage both artistic and administrative functions for ATP. The role also brings him home to Western Canada, as Evans grew up in British Columbia and has close family ties in Calgary.

“Finding a person who had both a compelling artistic vision and administrative experience was a daunting task,” said Abhay Sisodiya, Chair of ATP’s search committee. “Darcy has that rare combination of artistic vision, administrative experience, and fundraising skills that will allow ATP to grow its audience and provide expanded opportunities for Calgary artists”.

Darcy Evans (left) in a scene from ‘Fuente Ovejuna’ at the Stratford Festival. Photo: David Hou.

“Timing is everything. For the past three years, I have been focusing on building new skills and harnessing everything I’ve learned over two decades of working with some of the best and brightest theatre-makers in North America. I can’t help but think it was to prepare me to return home to Western Canada to lead ATP in its next exciting chapter.” said Evans.

Evans officially steps into the role on June 1.