Metzgar named ATC's artistic director
American Theater Company's (ATC's) board of directors has named respected Chicago artist Bonnie Metzgar as its interim artistic director, effective immediately.
Metzgar, the former artistic director of About Face Theatre, had an ongoing relationship with ATC, including directing the documentary play Let Me Down Easy by Anna Deavere Smith earlier this season.
The board also announced it will conduct a national search for new permanent leadership for the theater, following the unexpected passing of ATC Artistic Director PJ Paparelli last month. Details on a Chicago memorial service for Paparelli will be announced soon.
High school theater award winners named
Broadway In Chicago announce the award recipients of the Fourth Annual Illinois High School Musical Theater Awards: Ben Love of Byron, Illinois ( Byron High School ), as best actor for his portrayal of Edward Bloom in Big Fish and Grace Etzkorn of Lisle, Illinois ( Benet Academy ), as best actress for her portrayal of Winifred Banks in Mary Poppins.
Love and Etzkorn will represent the state of Illinois at The National High School Musical Theater Awards, also known as the Jimmy Awards, in New York on June 29.
Also, Joliet West High School was awarded the Grosh Scenic Design Award, a new honor celebrating excellence in scenic design, for its production of Into the Woods.