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DATE: March 6, 2023
TITLE: OPERA HOUSE ARTS ANNOUNCES NEW LEADERSHIP IN PREPARATION FOR SUMMER SEASON

Stonington, Maine – The Board of Directors of Opera House Arts (OHA) is proud to announce the return of Deer Isle resident Pamela Dewell to the team as it prepares to mount its highly anticipated summer season. Dewell, who served as Director of Development at OHA from 2017 to 2019, will assume the role of Interim Executive Director this spring, following the departure of current Executive Director Tony Adams, whose two-year engagement will have drawn to a close.

“We’re tremendously excited about the next chapter of the theater’s development,” said Board Chair David Stephens. “The coming summer promises to be the first in years largely unencumbered by COVID, and Pam brings the strengths needed to lead the Opera House into the ‘new normal.’ Her experience, expertise and deep connection to our community will be instrumental as we welcome patrons back to the Opera House this summer and remind them of the joy that comes through live performance—and as we return to the development of a strategic plan for the years ahead.”

Dewell has successfully worked in the Advancement Office of Maine Maritime Academy since 2019, first managing its Annual Fund before becoming a Major Gifts Officer just over a year ago. Her extensive nonprofit leadership experience includes roles as executive director of Tall Ships America in Newport, Rhode Island; the Wyoming Stock Growers Agricultural Land Trust; and the Georges River Land Trust.

“I’m thrilled to be returning to the Opera House,” said Dewell, “and am eager to partner with the Board, the Opera House team, and many constituents in our island community in charting an exciting path forward. I have missed working in the place where I live and am excited to invite old friends and neighbors to help guide the next phase of the organization’s planning and development.”

“The pandemic obviously hit performing arts organizations hard, across the country and worldwide,” noted Stephens, “but OHA’s foundation is firm. In recent years, the board has matured in its role as a strong governing body; and over the course of his tenure, Tony Adams oversaw key infrastructural improvements and a successful 2022 summer season. We are well positioned to reach new heights in 2023 and the years ahead. The board thanks Tony for his work these past two years.”

Opera House Arts is a nonprofit organization that offers professional theater, music, film, dance, educational programs, community events, and more. Year-round program offerings serve Hancock County’s residents and visitors alike, with a special emphasis on the residents of Stonington-Deer Isle and the greater Blue Hill Peninsula. For more information and a schedule of movies, live performances, and events, visit www.operahousearts.org.

Pamela Dewell