In a decision that was widely anticipated, the Westport Country Playhouse has named Mark Shanahan as artistic director, and Beth Huisking as managing director.
They have served as incoming artistic director and acting managing director, respectively. Today’s announcement makes their new posts official.
Shanahan will continue to curate the Playhouse’s Script in Hand play reading series. He is also the creator and curator of Westport Country Playhouse Radio Theater, in partnership with WSHU Public Radio, and served as writer/director of the Playhouse radio adaptation of “A Merry Little Christmas Carol.”
He is the writer/director of “A Sherlock Carol,” which was produced for the Playhouse’s 2023 holiday season, and has played annually in London and New York.
As an actor, Shanahan appeared at the Playhouse in several shows and numerous Script In Hand readings, as well as on and off Broadway. He is a graduate of Brown University, and earned a master’s degree at Fordham University.
Mark Shanahan and Beth Huisking (Photo/Mark Smith)
Huisking joined the Playhouse in 2005 as marketing associate. She has experience there as associate director of marketing and general manager.
“We are thrilled to have Mark and Beth at the helm,” says Athena T. Adamson, Playhouse board of trustees chair.
“They both have a deep knowledge of and respect for this treasured theater, while still keeping an enthusiasm for the future and all that the Playhouse can become. The board is grateful to have such strong leadership as the Playhouse moves forward with its plan to become a year-round center for the performing arts while continuing with its proud tradition of producing world-class plays.”
Shanahan says, “As we usher in a new chapter for the Playhouse, I’m excited to work alongside our incredible, devoted staff and board members and contribute to the ongoing legacy of this cherished theatre.
“In recent months we’ve felt a groundswell of support from the audience we serve. I look forward to building on that trust and enthusiasm as we program more innovative, year-round events and plan a new season of outstanding productions beginning in the fall.”
The 93-year-old Westport Country Playhouse
(“06880” covers the Playhouse — and the entire local entertainment scene. Please click here to support our work. Thank you!)
This is such great news. Mark and Beth have both devoted so much time and energy to the Playhouse, especially during this past year of rejuvenating the Playhouse and moving it forward into the future. Westport is so lucky in having them at the helm.
If Mark and Beth are the dynamic duo behind the cornucopia of excellent entertainment that attracts me to the Playhouse at least once a month, then their official appointments are cause for celebration.
Endless thanks to you both, for breathing new life into our beloved Playhouse.
Well deserved Beth! Congrats!