Vancouver, B.C. – After a nationwide search, Green Thumb Theatre is excited to announce the appointment of Anita Rochon as the company’s new Artistic Director. Her role will commence the week of April 22, 2024.

“Anita joins us from The Chop Theatre, where she served as Artistic Co-Director. She is bringing with her a rich tapestry of experience and enthusiasm for shaping the artistic trajectory of a theatre company” shares Board Chair Robert Kosnica. “We are thrilled to welcome Anita to Green Thumb, and we eagerly anticipate the fresh perspectives and creative energy she will infuse into our work. The entire Green Thumb team extends a warm welcome to Anita, and we look forward to collaborating with her in this exciting new chapter!”

The Board of Directors extends their thanks to the Hiring Committee for their efforts in securing the right fit for this role and wishes to thank all the talented candidates who applied.

Anita Rochon is a director and theatre-maker.  Since 2006, she’s been the Artistic Director of The Chop with Emelia Symington Fedy, a company they co-founded. As a director, Anita has worked at The Shaw Festival, Bard on the Beach, Theatre Replacement, Caravan Farm Theatre, Belfry Theatre, Théâtre la Seizième, Electric Company Theatre, Globe Theatre, and Vancouver Opera. She is a graduate of Studio 58 (Acting) and the National Theatre School of Canada (Directing). She is the recipient of the Ray Michal Prize for an Outstanding Body of Work by a New Director, a Mayor’s Arts Award (awarded by Donna Spencer), and the Siminovitch Protégé prize (awarded by Kim Collier). Anita is an active member of Canada’s theatre community and has sat on numerous advisory boards and juries.

“I have known and admired Anita as an artist and person for over 15 years. Her artistry, intellect, humour, and heart are going to serve her and Green Thumb incredibly well in this new chapter. I cannot think of a better candidate to step into the role, and I can't wait to see where she and Green Thumb go together” says Rachel Aberle, former Artistic Director of Green Thumb Theatre.

“I am thrilled to be appointed as the new Artistic Director of Green Thumb Theatre”, shares Anita. “I am inspired by the challenge of making theatre for young people that meets a high standard of artistic excellence while tackling subjects of consequence. Much of my artistic life has involved meaningful collaborations and creating theatre where the form and content are at play with each other. I will carry this forward into my time at Green Thumb while upholding the rigorous examples of the work produced by my predecessors. I’m looking forward to the discovery of new voices, new audiences, and working alongside my new colleagues.”

“I am so pleased to be welcoming Anita to Green Thumb Theatre and look forward to working together, forging this next chapter of Green Thumb Theatre’s story,” General Manager Shannon Maung said. “Anita has an incredible history working with artists at various stages in their development, with deep national connections and working knowledge of the contemporary international scene. Her experiences as a director and dramaturg, and her work in creative vision and artistic programming are an excellent fit for Green Thumb to ensure we continue to deliver excellent, live professional theatre to young people across the country, and beyond. “

Read Anita’s full bio at: www.greenthumb.bc.ca/about/staff.