Rep Stage, a professional theatre operating out of Howard County Community College, has named Suzanne Beal and Joseph Ritsch co-producing artistic directors.
Beal, a director and playwright, is the board chair of the Maryland Ensemble Theatre in Frederick and recently retired as vice president of learning at Frederick Community College, where she also taught English.
Ritsch, a playwright, director, performer and choreographer, is the co-founder of Iron Crow Theatre Company in Baltimore and is a principal ensemble member with New York's Jane Comfort and Company.
"We are absolutely thrilled about this pairing," says Valerie Lash, the college's dean of arts and humanities and Rep Stage's founding artistic director. "With their combined expertise and experience, we're confident that Suzanne and Joseph will form a strong artistic team, lead Rep Stage into a new season, and continue to bring Rep Stage's brand of theatre to the community.".
Beal and Ritsch will replace Michael Stebbins, who stepped down as Rep Stage's artistic director in May after nearly eight seasons.