By Cecilia Nasmith
Port Hope's Capitol Theatre announces that Erin Peirce is the new managing director.
The announcement noted that Peirce brings a wide range of experience in such key areas as the entertainment industry, innovative sales and business development, and building internal and external relationships – all vital considerations in shaping the organization's strategic success.
She joins the Capitol from one of the world's most famous and successful organizations, having held the position of vice-president of business operations for Second City Canada. As purveyors of “fearless comedy,” this organization launched such legendary comedic actors as John Candy.
During her time at Second City, she cut operating expenses in year one, launched additional theatre programming in off-peak time slots, increased ticket sales, enacted initiatives to strengthen the culture through financial transparency, and increased staff engagement and accountability.
All are priority areas for the Capitol Theatre, the press release noted.
Prior to her 16 years with Second City, Peirce had a strong educational background in sales and advanced prospecting, travel and tourism, and other areas. She supports cancer research, is a member of Women of Influence Inc. and is dedicated to outdoor activity.
Former colleagues refer to her as action-driven with a “solid track record for designing and implementing sales and marketing partnerships, identifying new business opportunities and delivering results.”
Capitol Theatres president and board chair Olga Cwiek expects Peirce to be a strong and compatible partner with artistic director Susan Ferley, who joined the organization a year ago.
“In combination, Susan and Erin give us a powerful, stabilizing and creative top-management team,” Cwiek said.
Ferley echoed that sentiment
“I look forward to working with Erin as, together, we strive to ensure that this beautiful theatre not only survives but flourishes.”
