CHICAGO: Collaboraction has named Darcy Addison to be its first executive director. Addison will share a leadership role with Anthony Moseley, who has served as both the executive and artistic director since the inception of Collaboraction in 1996.

“Bringing on Darcy as my leadership partner signifies a new era for the company and is a dream come true as we enter our 20th season,” said Moseley in a statement. “I am eager to see what Collaboraction can accomplish once I have more time to focus on programming and the impact our mission will have using theatre as a tool of change. I can’t wait to see how Darcy’s passion, wisdom, and professionalism affects our Collaboraction family and future.”

Addison received a degree in theatre from Northwestern University. She also studied at Steppenwolf Theatre Company, Piven Theater, and Second City, and worked as a professional actress in radio, television, and film for two decades. Her career in arts administration includes working at Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs (now DCASE), Gallery 37, the Irving Harris Foundation, and the Chicago Academy for the Arts.

Addison’s arrival coincides with the start of Collaboraction’s new Community Impact campaign to grow the company’s infrastructure and leadership. To help launch the campaign, Bloomberg Philanthropies has given Collaboraction a two-year grant.

“Our mission resonates with theatre patrons and our growing number of community partners who, like us, understand the power of the arts to create positive change,” said board president Nik Rokop in a statement. “Because our first platform, Crime Scene, is in its third year successfully helping increase the peace in Chicago, we are ready to expand this powerful movement to cities across the country. The current support of Bloomberg Philanthropies, AIM and our new ED, Darcy Addison, along with our fast growing family, promises to launch an exciting new chapter in Collaboraction’s story.”