ASHLAND, ORE.: The Oregon Shakespeare Festival (OSF) announced Gabriella Calicchio as its new executive director. In her new position, Calicchio will oversee the business operations of the organization with a focus on financial management, revenue growth, and general operations. Working with interim executive director Tyler Hokama to transition positions since the departure last year of David Schmitz, Calicchio officially begins her tenure in November.
“It is an immense honor to join an organization that I have long admired,” said Calicchio in a statement. “I am excited to bring my diverse experiences across various arts disciplines and industries to this iconic institution. I am particularly thrilled to return to my true passion—working in theatre—and to partner with Tim Bond, the board of directors, the leadership team, and community leaders to usher in a new era for OSF. Together we will continue to push boundaries, innovate, and inspire audiences for generations to come.”
Calicchio’s passion for the arts was ignited in her childhood, as she grew up in a small artist community in Vermont. After earning a BA in Drama and Dance from Bard College and an MA in Arts Administration and Education from Lesley University, she dedicated herself to leading arts organizations with a focus on growth, diversity, and community engagement. Most recently, she served as the director of cultural services and executive director of the Marin Cultural Association for the County of Marin in the Bay Area. She has also served as chief executive officer of the Walt Disney Family Museum (San Francisco), managing director of the Tony-winning Children’s Theatre Company (Minneapolis), managing director of Marin Theatre Company (Mill Valley, Calif.), and executive director of Diablo Ballet (Walnut Creek, Calif.).
“We are absolutely thrilled to welcome Gabriella to OSF,” said OSF artistic director Tim Bond in a statement. “Her extensive background in the arts, combined with her passion for theatre and her infectious spirit, make her an ideal partner as we continue to push the boundaries of what’s possible on stage. I am eager to collaborate with her not only to realize OSF’s artistic vision but also to strengthen our ties with the Ashland community and the broader region. Together, we will work to ensure that OSF remains a vital contributor to the community while expanding our impact on a global scale.”
The Oregon Shakespeare Festival was founded in 1935 in Ashland, Ore., and has grown from a three-day festival of two plays to a nationally renowned theatre arts organization that presents a rotating repertory season of up to 10 plays and musicals, including illuminating interpretations of Shakespeare, other enduring classics, and new works. As of 2022, the theatre had a budget of approximately $37 million.
