Executive Director John Faas (Photo credit, Scout Wampler)
Richmond Civic Theatre Hires New Leader
New Executive Director John Faas looks forward to fulfilling “dream job.”
After a nationwide search, Richmond Civic Theatre found their new leader close to home. John Faas, an Ohio native currently living in Dayton, will begin his duties at the helm of RCT May 1st.
Faas joins RCT from Columbus Children’s Theatre, where he was the Director of Development. “I received the job description from a friend in Dayton, and I was interested right away. It’s truly a dream job to be the Executive Director of a theatre that does what RCT does,” shared Faas. “Richmond Civic Theatre is small but mighty, with a very strong audience base. It is a terrific organization that is poised to grow.”
Board President and search committee chairperson Kathy Clopper has high hopes for Faas and RCT. “RCT was looking for a strong leader who will help us to move to a more professionally managed theatre. John has a strong background in development. His experience at the Human Race Theatre in Dayton, and the Columbus Children’s Theatre in Columbus, Ohio established a track record in successful fundraising and donor relations. John also brings vast knowledge of theatre management in large and small venues.”
Faas also was drawn to the wide range of shows that RCT puts on stage, from musicals and children’s shows to edgier dramas.
“Midwestern theatres have a certain sensibility and approach – it’s important to appeal to a wide range of tastes.”
Beyond his track record in development and donor relations, Faas has considerable experience on the artistic side of the theatre. He graduated from Wright State with a BFA in Musical Theatre, and has worked professionally as a music director, conductor, keyboardist, stage manager, and costumer.
Both Faas and Clopper see the relationship benefiting RCT for the future. As the theatre begins to emerge from covid shutdowns, Clopper knows the next year will be important for all arts organizations. “My hope is that RCT emerges with robust volunteer and patron support, continued success in our programming, and a solid and growing financial foundation,” said Clopper.
Faas currently lives in Dayton, Ohio with his husband Michael Embree and their dog Wally.
2020 Fund Drive
To keep theatre alive and thriving in our community, we are asking for your support to bridge the gap created by Covid-19. We need you to help make sure Richmond Civic Theatre can continue to fulfill its mission during this challenging season. Thank you for playing a part in this season like no other!
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