Theatre Calgary artistic director steps down for opportunity in Ontario

Theatre Calgary's longest servingartistic director isleaving the companyfor an opportunity at The Grand Theatre in London, Ont.

After 11 years at the helm, DennisGarnhumis moving back to the city "where as a child, I first discovered my passion for theatre," he said in a statement.

During histenure, Theatre Calgary audiences grewto10,600 subscribers, with a 58 per centincrease in single ticket revenueand 11 consecutive years of surpluses.

UnderGarnhum'sdirection, the organizationhas proudly presented seven world premieres, includingTimothy Findley's The Wars,Lost A Memoir, Beyond Eden, andThe Little Prince The Musical, along with works by Canadian playwrights, includingLiberation Days, andJake and the Kid.

"The last decade has been an absolute thrill ride for me here at Theatre Calgary," Garnhum said.

"I will miss Calgary acutely, as I have come to adore this city and its thriving, energetic arts community," he said.

Last day Sept. 9

"I leave with great sadness; however, it is evident to me, and I trust to all Calgarians, that the future for Theatre Calgary is strong."

In a statement, board chair Chadwick Newcombe praisedGarnhum for his leadership and vision.

"We express our utmost respect and gratitude for all the work that he has done in advancing the arts in Calgary, making us one of the nation's leading theatre companies, and garnering international attention," Newcombe said.

"This opportunity for him to work at The Grand Theatre, in the city where he grew up, was one that he simplycould not refuse."

Garnhum will officially step downon Sept. 9.