Dear Island Community,

As shared through a recent press release and social media, the Board of Directors of Opera House Arts has decided to engage new staff leadership, and we are excited to welcome Pamela Dewell back as Interim Executive Director this week. Pam, who previously served as Development Director, brings the valuable experience and fresh insights needed to ensure our sustainability as we emerge from the pandemic.

I understand that the Board’s decision to not renew our prior executive director’s term beyond the expiration of his written contract has raised questions. It is inappropriate, however, for the Board to disclose our decision-making process or to comment on confidential personnel matters. Like all non-profit boards, our primary responsibility is fiduciary oversight. Our decisions are not always easy but are consistently driven by the need to ensure long-term viability.

Opera House Arts continues to expand our traditional schedule of year-round programming and is exploring new ways to collaborate with local organizations. Our business model, like many other local businesses and organizations, depends on the resources of seasonal and full-time residents and visitors to support our year-round activities. Our donors’ generous support makes our community programming possible. We also remain exceedingly grateful for our staff and volunteers. These are the dedicated, hardworking people who make sure the lights remain bright in the theater.

Over the past several years, our Board has significantly changed its leadership and membership to be more reflective of our community. We continue to prioritize the inclusion of generational islanders, year-round residents, and younger members. A majority of our Board lives in Maine year-round and two of our leadership team are former Opera House Arts employees who grew up on the island.

Our founders sought to create a beacon of community and art on our island. The Board, staff, performers, and volunteers of the Opera House Arts family remain united in our commitment to achieve that vision. Please join us, come meet our team, and help us navigate the “new normal.” Together with our diverse community and your passion, insights, and creativity, we will continue to offer a welcoming place for all at the Stonington Opera House.

Sincerely,

David Stephens

Chairman, Board of Directors

Opera House Arts