Ship's Company Reviews Direction

Ship's Company Theatre has announced that it is about to undertake a full strategic review. The review will include an analysis of history and methodology, and an exploration of new organizational models and future direction. The outcome will be a three-year business and artistic plan.

Artistic director Scott Burke, who took over the helm of the Parrsboro theatre company in March 1998, is looking forward to the process.

"It's an exciting time for Ship's Company," said Burke. "Everyone involved with the company is committed to participating in the kind of long-term planning that will assure our future growth and success."

Funding for this special initiative is being provided by the Canada/Nova Scotia COOPERATION Agreement on Economic Diversification and the Canada Council. The diversification agreement is managed by the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency and the Nova Scotia Department of Economic Development and Tourism.

The theatre is a thriving cultural enterprise that has proven itself, in its 15-year history, to be an economic treasure for the region. It's a significant employer, purchaser, and an attraction for thousands of tourists.

Toronto arts consultant Lisa Nabieszko de Benitez will conduct the review. Her work with arts organizations in Ontario and British Columbia has been lauded for its precision, focus and human touch. Co-founder of Toronto's Small Theatre Administrative Facility, an umbrella management and promotion company for non-profit theatre, she has extensive experience in creative problem-solving, long-term planning and conflict resolution. She has conducted organizational reviews for Rumble Productions and JumpStart Performance in Vancouver.