Price will succeed Sara Garonzik, who served in the role for 35 years, in April; she will collaborate with her predecessor on completing the season selection process for the 2017-18 season. Garonzik is departing to pursue consulting work and independent producing projects. Price will also continue as a consultant to Theatre Aspen, helping to execute the summer season.
“Theatre Aspen took a chance on me ten years ago, and for that I am deeply grateful,” said Price in a statement. “I have worked alongside the most committed board, dedicated staff, inspired artists and amidst a remarkably supportive community of donors, audiences, and friends. I have never been so confident in the vitality of Theatre Aspen; I am only able to consider this exciting opportunity, because I know the organization is incredibly well positioned for success.”
About her new position, Price added, “I am very excited to be joining the Philadelphia Theatre Company. I see Philadelphia as a hotbed of opportunity for generating really important work in such a culturally rich city and I am eager to dive into the theatre community with its wealth of talented actors and artists. I am fortunate to inherit the excellent reputation that Sara has grown for the PTC and will put my knowledge, vision, creativity and connections to work in continuing to position PTC as a preeminent regional theatre in America.”
“Paige has dedicated nearly two decades to serving this union, and has worked tirelessly on behalf of our members across the country in positions ranging from committee member to Acting President," Equity President Kate Shindle said in a statement. "We are excited about her new gig, but also sorry to lose her. Equity can fill the leadership positions that she has held here, but it will be impossible to replace Paige Price.”
PTC Board Chairman E. Gerald Riesenbach stated, “Paige comes to us highly recommended by artists and art leaders across the country, and she brings a clear vision to build on the exceptional reputation that the Philadelphia Theatre Company has enjoyed under Sara’s leadership. When Sara decided that the current season would be her last, we embarked on a national search to find a worthy successor. We couldn’t be more pleased to welcome Paige as the Theatre’s new creative leader, and we are very excited about working with her to continue PTC’s mission and build on its reputation as an outstanding venue for important and entertaining theater.”
During a decade under Price’s leadership, Colorado's Theatre Aspen increased revenue by 127 percent, conducted a capital campaign to create the Hurst Theatre, instituted a professional Apprentice Program, and launched the Aspen Theatre Festival for new work. Price, who was seen on Broadway in Saturday Night Fever, Smokey Joe's Café, and Beauty and the Beast, is also a member of the Tony Awards Nominating Committee. When she begins her work at PTC, she will step down as the vice president of Actors' Equity Association.
