The Chicago Shakespeare Theater Board of Directors has named internationally recognized director Edward Hall as Artistic Director and esteemed arts leader Kimberly Motes as Executive Director. This momentous appointment of new leadership—only the second in the Theater’s history—ushers in Chicago Shakespeare’s next chapter as the Tony Award-winning company approaches its fourth decade.
Edward Hall
Artistic Director
Carl and Marilynn Thoma Chair
This marks a homecoming for Edward Hall, who directed the Jeff Award-winning Rose Rage trilogy at the Theater in 2003 and will be directing the highly anticipated Richard III later this season. Edward has built his love of Shakespeare around original interpretations of the Bard’s plays, staging acclaimed productions in London’s West End and on tour around the globe. He led the UK’s Hampstead Theatre for nearly a decade, transforming it into one of the nation’s most successful theaters for new work development, with over 100 world premieres. His extensive film and television credits include Blithe Spirit starring Dame Judi Dench, multiple HBO and BBC series, and the season 4 finale for Downton Abbey.
Kimberly Motes
Executive Director
Kimberly Motes brings more than 25 years of senior leadership experience within the performing arts and higher education. Since 2016, Kimberly has served as the Managing Director of the Tony Award-winning Children’s Theatre Company, the nation’s largest and most acclaimed theater dedicated to serving multigenerational audiences. Her tenure has been defined by demonstrated successes in financial management, increasing philanthropic contributions, and achieving the organization’s highest-ever ticket sales. Kimberly possesses a proven track record for driving impactful programming in classrooms and communities. She has held leadership roles with Theater Latté Da, the Cowles Center for Dance and Performing Arts, Arena Stage, John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, and Washington Ballet.
HERE’S to OUR bright future...together
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