Shakespeare & Company has selected Amy Handelsman as Managing Director, following an executive search process led by Arts Consulting Group (ACG). She will begin her tenure on May 1, 2022.
An experienced administrator, writer and creative, Handelsman last served as Managing Director of GALLIM, a movement production company which staged recent productions at Lincoln Center's Hearst Plaza, the New York City Ballet, the Martha Graham Dance Company, and Ailey II. During her time there, she oversaw business development, teaching and residencies, fundraising and marketing, and all fiscal and operational matters.
Previously, Handelsman has worked with David Dorfman Dance, United States Mind Sports Association, United States Poker Federation, and Center Theatre Group, among others. As a writer, lecturer, and creative consultant, she has been invited to present and instruct at such places as New York University Tisch School of the Arts, Stony brook University, and Columbia Graduate School for Film and Television. Handelsman holds a bachelor of arts degree in art history from Harvard University and a master of fine arts from Stony Brook University.
In making the announcement, long-time board member and former Board Chair Mike Miller said, “We couldn’t be more pleased with the choice of Amy Handelsman as our next Managing Director at Shakespeare & Company. Having managed other very reputable arts organizations, Amy brings a wealth of experience that this company will truly benefit from. We’re looking forward to having her join the board and staff to build on the accomplishments of the last forty-five years.”
Artistic Director Allyn Burrows added, “We’re very happy to welcome Amy Handelman into our midst as Managing Director. Shakespeare & company is a unique organization and Amy brings a perspective and sensibility that aligns with our collective conversation as we look forward to new horizons. A long-time theater maker, Amy understands the commitment it takes to make this art form relevant and viable in an ever-changing world. It’s exciting to have her join us.”
“I am thrilled to be joining Allyn Burrows, the rest of the staff and the board at Shakespeare & Company, one of the nation’s most highly regarded theater companies – to uphold the playful rigor of its work and to open up new avenues for programming, partnerships, and community engagement,” said Handelsman.
“Congratulations to the board and staff on the announcement of Amy Handelsman as the Managing Director of Shakespeare & Company,” said ACG Vice President Geoff Chang. “Handelsman brings experience and passion for theater, as well as business acumen, professional agility, and deep desire to connect with and communicate with various stakeholders. Her contributions to Shakespeare & Company will provide strength and support to the organization in the coming years.”
April 2022