by Courier Newsroom
The New Pittsburgh Courier has learned that Joseph Hall was selected as the new executive director of the Kelly Strayhorn Theater. The announcement was made by KST’s Board of Directors on Jan. 20.
According to a press release from KST, from 2009-2014, Hall worked as an intern and rose to producing director at the theater, where he co-curated and managed year-round original programming, including mainstage performances, residencies, rentals, workshops and classes.
Prior to his appointment as executive director at KST, Hall served as the deputy director at BAAD! The Bronx Academy of Arts and Dance in New York City. KST’s press release said that Hall has extensive experience in development, programming and operations.
“The experience and global network that I’ve gained by working in New York City, combined with my ongoing relationships with Pittsburgh’s arts and foundation communities, has uniquely prepared me for this role,” Hall said in the release. “I see Kelly Strayhorn Theater as a beacon of contemporary practices and a community convener that leads boldly toward equity and holistic innovation, from operations to public programs. For the city of Pittsburgh and beyond, I want to ensure that Kelly Strayhorn Theater remains an East Liberty treasure.”
KST Board Chair Yvonne Campos said in a statement that Hall “was unanimously selected by the search committee and board as the right leader for the next stage of Kelly Strayhorn’s growth. We are thrilled to have Joseph lead the Theater, and we look forward to him applying his expertise, experience, and knowledge to continue to expand the impact of the organization.”
More specifically in Pittsburgh, Hall, while in his first stint at KST, created original programming including “My People,” a film and performance series celebrating the lives of queer people of color, and the residency and showing series “Fresh Works.” In 2013, Hall managed the promotion and outreach for Pittsburgh Arts & Lectures’ special event with Wu Tang Clan’s RZA and curated outdoor stages for The Pittsburgh Cultural Trust’s Dollar Bank Three Rivers Arts Festival.
Hall succeeds Janera Solomon, who took over KST in 2008 and announced her departure in mid-2019.
Named after the 20th-century entertainment legends, Gene Kelly and Billy Strayhorn, both native to Pittsburgh, KST is reflective of the passion that its founders had for the arts, according to a KST release. KST carries on the legacy of its namesakes by fostering bold and innovative artistry with a global perspective. The theater celebrates diversity and upholds a firm commitment to inclusion.
(ABOUT THE TOP PHOTO: JOSEPH HALL)
About Post Author
