The Board of Directors is thrilled to announce the appointment of Claude Giroux as the next Artistic Director of New West Theatre.
Jeremy Mason who has served as both General Manager (2009 – 2012) and Artistic Director (2012 – 2015) announced in January that he would be stepping down at the end of the season. After considering both local applicants and those from across Canada, New West Theatre is thrilled to have Giroux join the administrative team.
Giroux has held the title of Artistic Director for six theatres across Canada and the USA including Theatre New Brunswick, Playhouse Merced, The Allenberry Playhouse, Northern Lights Playhouse, Keyano Theatre Company and most recently TheatreK in West Vancouver BC. In addition to his extensive directing credits, Giroux is an avid adaptor of plays and musicals and has written adaptations of A Christmas Carol, Sleeping Beauty, Cinderella and Hometown…The Musical!
Board President, Doug MacArthur says, “One of Claude’s great strengths has been his ability to facilitate positive change in a company, while at the same time maintaining the long held artistic traditions that have become the foundation of that company.”
“I couldn’t be happier for this amazing opportunity to join such a vibrant cultural gem in the heart of Southern Alberta. I’m so excited to roll up my sleeves and get to work on the coming and future seasons of excellent live professional theatre right here in Lethbridge!” says Giroux.
“I happen to know Claude and I think he’s a great fit for the company,” said outgoing Artistic Director Jeremy Mason. “He’s community oriented and incredibly easy to work with.” Giroux will join current General Manager, Jeff Newman, in leading the company. Newman had this to say, “Claude has a vast amount of theatre experience, and his skills and talents will be a huge asset to the growth of the company. I think we’ll make a great team.”
On May 19th New West Theatre will unveil its 26th season of live theatre as well as begin sales of their popular subscription packages.