Jessica Stone: Leading La Jolla Playhouse into a New Era of Theater Excellence
Jessica Stone, a seasoned stage director with notable Broadway productions under her belt, has been named the new artistic director of La Jolla Playhouse. She will take over from Christopher Ashley, who is stepping down after nearly two decades to lead the Roundabout Theatre Company in New York City. Stone's appointment follows an extensive national search for a successor to Ashley.
Stone is no stranger to San Diego theater, having directed successful shows at The Old Globe. Her work includes the world premiere of "Ken Ludwig's Robin Hood!" and productions of classic plays and Shakespearean works. She is set to bring her expertise to La Jolla Playhouse, known for its commitment to innovative and diverse theater.
As the first female artistic director to work alongside managing director Debby Buchholz, Stone joins an all-woman leadership team at the Playhouse. Her impressive directorial credits and collaborative leadership style make her a fitting choice to lead the theater into its next chapter of bold and compelling productions.
Stone's journey from a 30-year acting career to directing has equipped her with a unique perspective that she brings to her new role. Her experience directing large-scale productions like "Water for Elephants" has honed her skills in orchestrating diverse storytelling disciplines and working with a range of artists. She aims to continue the Playhouse's legacy of pushing boundaries and nurturing new voices in theater.
With a deep understanding of the Playhouse's culture and a passion for creating impactful theater, Stone is poised to make a significant impact in her new role. She plans to immerse herself in the company's operations and explore opportunities for collaboration with UCSD's renowned theater department. Stone's vision for the Playhouse includes providing development space for artists at all stages of their careers and fostering creative partnerships between emerging talents and seasoned professionals.
As she embarks on her journey as artistic director, Stone looks forward to building on the Playhouse's legacy of innovation and excellence. Her commitment to storytelling that blends pain, hope, and joy reflects her dedication to creating meaningful and engaging theater experiences for audiences. With her leadership and artistic vision, Stone is set to lead La Jolla Playhouse into a new era of groundbreaking productions and artistic collaboration.