NEW YORK CITY: Second Stage Theater has named Khady Kamara to be its executive director after a national search that began in February. Kamara, who currently serves as managing director of Arena Stage in Washington, D.C., will join Second Stage part time beginning Sept. 14. She will assume the role full time on Jan. 4, 2021. She replaces interim executive director Andrew Hamingson, who served since the departure of Casey Reitz in 2019.
“Khady’s strong leadership abilities and her passionate commitment to the work of living American writers make her the ideal new executive director for Second Stage,” said Carole Rothman, the theatre’s president and artistic director, in a statement. “It’s a challenging time for theatre, and I am impressed with Khady’s fierce determination to move the institution forward as we start producing again. She will be a powerful new voice in our Broadway and theatrical community and for the many artists who are part of the Second Stage family.”
As the managing director of Arena Stage, Kamara oversees general management and production, building operations, and earned and contributed income streams. During her 19-year tenure, Kamara doubled the company’s subscription base, increased patron engagement, and contributed to the world premieres of Dear Evan Hansen and The Originalist, both of which transferred to New York. Kamara currently serves as adjunct faculty for the arts management program at George Mason University, EDI Co-Chair of the League of Resident Theaters, and a member of the board of directors of Theatre Washington.
“It is an honor to join Carole, the dedicated staff and passionate board at Second Stage,” said Kamara in a statement. “During these unprecedented times, we have a unique opportunity to rebuild and reimagine our next chapter while ensuring that Second Stage remains an integral part of the New York theatre community at large. I’ve advocated for a focused lens on diversity, inclusion, and social-justice awareness throughout my 22-year career, and I look forward to being an authentic voice as part of a cultural institution that is actively working to uphold these values. I have great respect for the artists of Second Stage and I’m inspired by the theatre’s commitment to artistic excellence. I’m excited to work with this talented team and call Second Stage my new theatrical home.”
