Orlando, FL (February 4, 2019) – Orlando Repertory Theatre (Orlando REP) announces the summer 2019 retirement of Executive Director, Gene Columbus, after more than a decade-long tenure with the foremost professional family theater in Central Florida.
“Gene has been an instrumental part of Orlando REP for the past 11 years, and although we knew this time would eventually come, we are so thankful for Gene and the tremendous accomplishments he has made to Orlando REP,” says Board Chairman Kirtus Bocox. “Gene helped build a firm foundation and a wonderful workplace culture at the Orlando REP, and we are excited to carry that momentum forward.”
“I have absolutely adored the time that I got to have with Gene Columbus as our Executive Director,” remarks Jeff Revels, Artistic Director. “We have grown tremendously during his tenure, and he has been a perfect partner as we have dreamed – and continue to dream -about the incredible work we want to accomplish. We are but stewards of this theatre dating back to 1926. Gene has left his indelible mark on this institutional legacy.”
A MESSAGE FROM EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR GENE COLUMBUS:
After eleven years serving children and families at Orlando Repertory Theatre, the time has come for me to announce that this summer, I will be stepping down from my role and beginning my second retirement.
In February 2008, I retired (for the first time!) from a wonderful 38-year career with the Walt Disney World Company to join the team at Orlando Repertory Theatre. I promised to stay with Orlando REP for a minimum of five years – but I fell in love with the place and stayed another six years. My time at Orlando REP has been the most rewarding in my career. I have worked with many remarkably passionate and talented people, all of whom loved helping children see how they could fit into the world – using theatre to show them the way. We have touched so many families in our time, and I burst with pride thinking of the positive impact our team has made.
As you can imagine, my feelings are bittersweet, but I know Orlando REP will be in good hands after my departure. I wish to express thanks to our arts community, our staff, our Board of Directors, patrons, donors, and all of our friends that have worked so tirelessly to create moments that matter on our quest to be The Finest in Family Theatre! The world is truly a better place because of Orlando REP.
I am a proud “retirement failure”, and look forward to this next busy phase of my life where I will continue to help, support, engage, guide, teach, write, speak, and lots more for our community. With my time at Orlando REP, my time with the Walt Disney Company, and my ten years as a performer, my career spans nearly 60 years! I have no plans on stopping now, and am so excited for all the things still out there for me to do. I look forward to seeing you all around the community, and of course, at the theatre!
Orlando Repertory Theatre has opened the application process to begin the search for a new Executive Director. Candidates interested in applying for the role may visit https://www.orlandorep.com/get-involved/careers/for a full job description and to submit an application.
About Orlando Repertory Theatre – Orlando REP is a professional theatre with a mission to create experiences that enlighten, entertain, and enrich families and young audiences. The 2018-2019 season is generously presented by Advent Health. In addition to productions, Orlando REP conducts community engagement initiatives. The award-winning REP Youth Academy provides classes and workshops for children, along with professional development opportunities to classroom teachers. Housed in a three theatre complex in Orlando’s Loch Haven Park, Orlando REP is also home to the University of Central Florida’s MFA in Theatre for young Audiences graduate program. Orlando REP is Florida’s only professional Theatre for Young Audiences.
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