One of Victoria’s most prominent arts administrators is the new executive director of Kaleidoscope Theatre.
Marcus Handman begins his position Oct. 1.
Handman, former manager of the Victoria Symphony and Pacific Opera Victoria, said one of his goals is to increase Kaleidoscope Theatre’s financial stability so the company can “grow artistically.” He will pursue government and private-foundation grants, as well as sponsorships, and there will also be a fundraising campaign.
The children’s theatre company, which has a $500,000 annual operating budget, is in “pretty good shape” financially, Handman said. It carries an accumulated deficit of $4,000.
Handman said another goal is increasing the number of performances for schools and the public, as well as investigating the possibility of Vancouver Island tours.
“I would love to see Kaleidoscope not just regain its position within the capital region, but also as an Island resource,” he said. “I’d like to boost that presence, to create more awareness and sell more tickets.”
Handman’s career includes senior management positions with the Directors Guild of Canada, the International Cinematographers Guild and Opera Lyra Ottawa.
Kaleidoscope president George Szwender said Handman brings a “wealth of experience” to the company. Artistic director Roderick Glanville said the appointment will lead to “tremendous growth opportunities.”
Kaleidoscope Theatre’s season begins Oct. 30 with a fundraising production of Little Shop of Horrors at the McPherson Playhouse.
