Hampton Arts Announces Richard M. Parison, Jr. as New Artistic Director

- Nationwide Search ends as Hampton Arts continues its 2015-2016 Season -

Hampton Arts announced today the selection of Richard M. Parison, Jr. as its new Artistic Director, effective January 11, 2016.  The Artistic Director oversees the artistic, theatre and educational programming and activities of The American Theatre and The Charles H. Taylor Arts Center. 

Parison comes to Hampton Arts with over 20 years experience in regional theatre and performing arts and has an extensive professional background in artistic administration and management. Richard is no stranger to Virginia having spent 5 seasons as Executive Director of the CenterStage Performing Arts Center in Richmond, VA curating its programmatic, marketing, educational and fundraising functions. 

Joe Tsao, Hampton Coliseum/Hampton Arts Commission Director (City department that oversees Hampton Arts) noted, “Richard has a tremendous artistic background and clear passion for the arts and their impact on our region.  I believe his combination of passion and experience will serve the department and the community extremely well.”

Parison has additionally held executive level positions at organizations including the Walnut Street Theatre (Philadelphia, PA), The Prince Music Theater (Philadelphia), Barrington Stage Company (Berkshires, MA) and Westcoast Black Theatre Company (Sarasota, FL). Richard holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Directing and Arts Administration from Miami University, in Oxford, Ohio and is a fellow of the Pew Charitable Trusts Emerging Leadership Program.

 “I am honored and excited to come to Hampton and become part of this dynamic and diverse region,” said Mr. Parison.  “I was impressed with not only the beautiful facilities of The American Theatre and The Charles H. Taylor Arts Center but also the vital people that help bring them to life daily. I am eager to draw on my producing and presenting background to grow the artistic tapestry of Hampton Arts and help guide it to new heights.”

Parison replaces former Artistic Director, Jeffrey Stern, who moved to Washington D.C in 2015.  The City recruited nationally for candidates in this search; representatives from both the Hampton Arts Foundation and Hampton Arts Commission were included in the interview process.