Theatre Calgary Announces Stafford Arima as New Artistic Director

Theatre Calgary announced Stafford Arima as the 12th Artistic Director in the theatre's 49-year history. Born and raised in Toronto, Arima has thrived in the New York theatre scene for nearly 20 years, and he became the first Asian Canadian to direct a musical on Broadway when Allegiance opened on November 8, 2015 at the Longacre Theatre, starring George Takei and Lea Salonga. He was also nominated for an Olivier Award for his direction of 2004's West End premiere of the musical, Ragtime, and his production received 8 nominations including Best Musical. 

It is with great honour and immeasurable excitement that I begin this new adventure as artistic director at Theatre Calgary," says Arima. "This journey to Calgary is a homecoming for me. After two decades based in New York City, my return to Canada gives me immense pride. I am eager to participate in Calgary's fervent artistic spirit, and continue the tradition of bold storytelling and impactful theatre that moves, touches and inspires this city’s audiences. As Calgary knows, this theatre has achieved immense success under the former artistic leadership of Dennis Garnhum," acknowledges Arima.

Executive Director Colleen A. Smith shares her excitement. "Theatre Calgary is indeed fortunate to welcome an artist of Stafford’s caliber. Our organization recently adopted a bold new strategic plan that envisioned our company creating work that is inclusive, innovative, and meaningful," says Smith. "I couldn’t be more excited to lead Theatre Calgary towards this vision with Stafford and with the support of our incredible team and community. The Board has made an excellent and inspiring choice. The future is bright."

Read the full announcement on the Theatre Calgary website.

Photo by Jeff Yee