Dave Mabell | Lethbridge Herald | January 3, 2019

New West Theatre has a new general manager.

Derek Stevenson, the Lethbridge organization’s chief executive for the past three years, has announced he’s being succeeded by long-active Alberta theatre professional Kelly Reay.

“Kelly is an award-winning theatre producer, administrator and director who is thrilled to be joining the team at New West Theatre,” Stevenson says.

“He is a 20-year veteran of the Alberta theatre industry and has worked in numerous capacities as a theatre professional.”

Reay’s credits include serving as a producer for One Yellow Rabbit’s High Performance Rodeo (2016-18) and as artistic director of Sage Theatre (2004-14). He’s also worked on contract with Theatre Calgary, Vertigo Theatre, Lunchbox Theatre, Theatre Junction, Shadow Theatre, Inside Out Theatre, Pumphouse Theatre, Red Deer College and University of Calgary.

He’s also a member of the board of directors for the Theatre Alberta organization.

“Kelly has recently relocated to Lethbridge with his talented wife Nicky and young daughter, and is excited to get to know his new community and all the amazing people here,” Stevenson says.

“I am extremely confident in where he will take the company under his tenure.”

Stevenson is moving to Calgary where he will serve as program and granting manager for the Rozsa Foundation, working on professional development programs for artists and arts administrators, and granting funds to other arts organization in Calgary.

“Although I am sad to be leaving New West and Lethbridge, it has been an incredible three years with this company, and I am excited for my next adventure.”