Shakespeare & Company’s director is returning to his previous post in St. Louis months after joining the organization. Rick Dildine is abruptly returning to Shakespeare Festival St. Louis to serve as artistic and executive director, according to a press release from the company.
Dildine left the St. Louis group and was named executive director of Shakespeare & Company in September 2014. The Lenox-based company released its 2015 season lineup last month.
“What I love about the Festival and what I know to be a part of my DNA is the excitement of the artistic role I play,” said Dildine in a prepared statement. “During my time at Shakespeare & Company, we were able to accomplish some monumental tasks towards its operational success; however, my skills and passions are directly related to producing theatre. I am so excited to be returning to my artistic roots.”
Shakespeare & Company also released this statement from Dildine.
“I have learned a lot while collaborating with the Board and the staff at Shakespeare & Company over the past few months,” Dildine said. “In evaluating the opportunities ahead for Shakespeare & Company, I’ve decided that my skills are best served in St. Louis. My deepest thanks to Chair Sarah Hancock and the other trustees who have worked so closely with me to create a more sustainable organization.”
“We are sad to see Rick depart as he has contributed so much to our organization already,” said Sarah Hancock, Chair of the Board of Trustees, in a statement. “He is a creative producer and deserves to be able to use his skills where his passion lies. We wish him the best of luck.”
Shakespeare & Company says Dildine led its recent budget process, which ended in the approval of a budget for the next fiscal year.
The company's Board of Trustees has appointed Steve Ball as interim managing director. Ariel Bock and Jonathan Croy will serve as interim co-artistic directors.
"We are delighted to announce these appointments, and have supreme confidence in this team’s abilities to lead the season ahead," said Hancock in a statement. "Collectively, they bring a tremendous amount of experience to the organization, and are all well-respected members of the industry and the community.”
In November 2014, Shakespeare & Company founding member and then-artistic director Tony Simotes resigned. His contract was set to expire in May 2015. The reasons for his departure have not been publicly revealed.
