By Cecilia Nasmith
Port Hope's Capitol Theatre welcomes theatre artist Rob Kempson into the role of Artistic Producer.
As of October, the announcement said, Kempson will be working full-time alongside Managing Director Erin Peirce and Artistic Director Susan Ferley (who will conclude her tenure in December).
Director, writer and educator, Kempson brings 15 years of experience in the non-profit professional-arts sector. Among his artistic leadership positions, he lists Associate Artistic Director slots at the Thousand Islands Playhouse (Gananoque) and at Theatre Passe Muraille (Toronto).
Earlier this year, Kempson was named Co-Artistic Producer of ARC, an ensemble-based company dedicated to producing international work. He was also founding Artistic Director of timeshare performance, a multi-award-winning Toronto-based collective, and has worked across Ontario as a freelance director and playwright,
“With experience as both an artistic and administrative leader, Kempson is well known for his commitment to community engagement,” the announcement stated.
“His career has been marked by an integrated approach to arts education, finding opportunities for participation and engagement in professional theatre-making with audiences of all ages.”
Capitol Theatre President and Board Chair Olga Cwiek described Kempson as “richly experienced in every facet of theatre – programming, production, audience development, artistic training, community outreach.
“These are all critical dimensions of the Capitol Theatre's place as a community-engaged arts organization with a growing regional market.”
“Stepping into this role at the Capitol right now feels a bit like kismet,” Kempson declared.
“The organization is seeking a fresh new vision to lead us out of the pandemic and into a more inclusive future, while I am seeking a new artistic challenge.
“I am eager to connect with the community and create a robust theatre that celebrates what is unique about Northumberland County. I am deeply honoured to build on the legacy of this rich cultural jewel.”
Peirce expects Kempson's experience will be “a huge asset as we move forward.
“As a team, I am confident we will weather whatever comes next in our changed and changing world to ensure that the theatre is safe, accessible and relevant to the many different audiences we serve.”
As Ferley concludes her three-year tenure as Artistic Director, Kempson will transition into his new role. She will be programming the remainder of the 2021 season, with Kempson's programming to commence in 2022.
The announcement coincides with the theatre's plans to unveil the expansion that was completed during the pandemic – a direct result of deep investment from the community that will allow for regular programming in the Sculthorpe Theatre, as well as space for production facilities and visual-arts exhibitions.
Closed during the March 2020 pandemic restrictions, the Capitol is beginning reopening plans this month with its outdoor concerts under the theatre's iconic marquee. Plans will be announced for opening the doors to indoor performances in September, in accordance with provincial safety guidelines, and ticket holders will be contacted with more information.
