Red Stitch Actors’ Theatre has announced the departure of Fiona Symonds, who is stepping down from her role as General Manager after over seven years to take on a new role as Coordinator Arts Programming at the City of Kingston.
Throughout her time at Red Stitch, Fiona has worked closely with Artistic Director Ella Caldwell to deliver 47 productions including 9 INK world premieres. During her tenure, Red Stitch embarked on five tours including the company’s first international tour and presented four PLAYlist festivals.
Together they achieved significant growth, from audience reach to artist wages. Fiona’s professionalism and care have been instrumental in these achievements.
“Working with Fiona during her time with us has been a privilege. Her integrity and passion have been unwavering, while her expertise and commitment have immensely impacted on our trajectory as an organisation,” said Ella Caldwell.
“Fiona has been a champion of the company and its artists, and worked tirelessly for their benefit. She will be dearly missed by the Ensemble, staff and our associate artists, added Ella.
“On behalf of the Board, I would like to thank Fiona for her dedication over the past seven years, particularly through the recent challenges presented by the pandemic and in her leadership as we have moved through the recovery towards launching a 7-play season in 2023,” said Red Stitch Chair, Sophia Hall
“We now have the opportunity to recruit a new General Manager to join Artistic Director Ella Caldwell, working with the Ensemble and the Board in leading us through the next chapter for Red Stitch.”
Speaking to her time working with Red Stitch, Fiona said: “It has been my absolute privilege to be part of this company for one third of its history,” she said.
“I love this organisation wholeheartedly, and I’m so proud of what we have achieved in the time I’ve been GM: the fantastic work we’ve produced, the artists we’ve championed, our increasingly mature and inclusive structure, and the care we have taken of each other.”
“You can count on the fact that I’ll be seeing lots of Red Stitch shows to come. I haven’t missed one since 2016, and I don’t expect that to change anytime soon,” said Fiona.
For more information about Red Stitch, visit: www.redstitch.net for details.
Image: Fiona Symonds (centre) and friends at the 2023 Launch – courtesy of Red Stitch