A year after the departure of its artistic director, Laguna Playhouse announced hiring a successor, theatre producing veteran Ann E. Wareham, a 27-year producing partner with Center Theatre Group in Los Angeles.
“We are very fortunate to continue our partnership with Ann as she advances from
associate producer to artistic director,” said Playhouse Executive Director Karen Wood, making the announcement this week. “Her extraordinary talent, experience and passion for the collaborative process of theatre are already serving The Laguna Playhouse and community well. We are very excited to deepen our cultural partnership with Ann.”
Added board president Henry Mayhew: “Ann brings a rich history and aesthetic sensibility to our organization. We are pleased to welcome her to the leadership of The Laguna Playhouse.”
Wareham succeeds Andrew Barnicle, who departed last August after two decades as artistic director.
Wareham served as producing associate to Gordon Davidson during his award-winning leadership as artistic director of CTG.
In a statement, Davidson said, “Annie makes it her business to know everything about the work at hand. She is known and respected in the field nationally and I believe she will make an extraordinary contribution to the reputation of The Laguna Playhouse.”
Last year, Wareham supported the Pasadena Playhouse as the associate producer for the West Coast premiere of “Dangerous Beauty.” She has also produced plays at the Victory Theatre, the CAST Theatre and the Met, in Los Angeles.
She is a new resident of Laguna.
“I am eager to roll up my sleeves in service to our patrons and in support of our partners, board of trustees, staff and friends. The Playhouse has an extraordinary artistic history and I am pleased and proud to be here.”
