Patrick Parker will step down as associate artistic director of the Tony-winning Paper Mill Playhouse September 30 after 27 years with the New Jersey venue. He will continue on a consulting basis, assisting with the transition and a variety of special projects.
“After almost three decades and much recent reflection, I have decided to step aside from my duties as associate artistic director at Paper Mill Playhouse," says Parker.
"I am forever grateful to the many colleagues I have worked with side by side over these many years, our esteemed Board of Trustees, our dedicated stage crew, the committed patrons and donors I have built relationships with, and the myriad of talented artists with whom I have had the privilege to collaborate," he continues. "I am especially proud of my many former students who have gone on to amazing and important careers in the arts and beyond—you have taught me so much! As I contemplate my 27-year journey with one of the greatest regional theatres in the world, it has been such an honor to participate in its renaissance. To that I owe all those mentioned above, but especially credit my friend, my associate, my brother Mark S. Hoebee. His support, comradeship, and leadership has made this journey the highlight of my long career in this industry. I look forward to the next steps in the evolution of this amazing institution and to continuing my relationship with Paper Mill.”
READ: Disney's Hercules Sets Stage Return at New Jersey's Paper Mill Playhouse
“There is not much about this institution, and the multitude of artists who have worked here, that Patrick does not know,” adds Producing Artistic Director Hoebee. “Patrick’s years of experience, depth of commitment, passion for the work, knowledge of the canon, and body of artists is unparalleled. We will all miss his daily presence but are comforted by the fact that Patrick will continue to shape and secure Paper Mill’s future with his work on special projects.”
Parker, who was awarded the Byrne/Kean Arts Advocate Award for his decades of service to Paper Mill, began his tenure at the theatre in 1995 as assistant to the artistic director. He was promoted to associate artistic director in 2010, helping to curate seasons, choose and hire creative teams, and oversee productions. He also directed and choreographed New Voices segments, assembled and rehearsed Paper Mill's Theater School students for galas and other performances, and led development initiatives. Parker served as resident dramaturg and as resident historian, the gatekeeper of the organization’s archives.
“Patrick is synonymous with Paper Mill—he has been here through nearly three decades of enormous growth, and also some of the company’s most difficult moments. His impact on the company is immeasurable,” states Managing Director Mike Stotts.
Recipient of the 2016 Regional Theatre Tony Award, the not-for-profit Paper Mill Playhouse is under the leadership of Producing Artistic Director Hoebee and Managing Director Stotts.
