Lighthouse Festival announces shake-up in artistic director role
iPhoto caption: Jane Spence and Derek Ritschel. Photo courtesy of Lighthouse Festival.
After 14 years at Lighthouse Festival Theatre, artistic director Derek Ritschel has announced that he is stepping down from his position, pivoting to a new post as the company’s director in residence. Current artistic associate Jane Spence will step into the role of artistic director this November.
In a press release, Ritschel shared his “deep gratitude” toward Lighthouse, calling his time as the company’s artistic director “an absolute honour.”
“I couldn’t have imagined how great this theatre would become, thanks to the support of our incredible community and the unwavering dedication of our team,” he said.
Spence brings a wealth of experience to the artistic director position, with nearly 30 years of national and international performing and directing experience under her belt.
“I am deeply honoured to undertake this new venture as artistic director,” Spence shared in a statement. “Derek has left an indelible mark on Lighthouse, and I am excited to build upon his legacy. I look forward to carrying Lighthouse Festival into the future, with a continued focus on innovation, inclusivity, and artistic excellence.”
You can learn more about Lighthouse Festival Theatre here.
Aisling Murphy
Aisling is Intermission's senior editor and an award-winning arts journalist with bylines including the Toronto Star, Globe & Mail, CBC Arts, CTV News Toronto, and Maclean's. She likes British playwright Sarah Kane, most songs by Taylor Swift, and her cats, Fig and June. She was a 2024 fellow at the National Critics Institute in Waterford, CT.
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