HomeMy WebLinkAboutThe Citizen-Blyth Festival 2000, 2000-06-21, Page 48Karen Stewart Festival’s woman in demand
Around the Blyth Festival Karen Stewart is a woman in demand. As
Administrative Director, Stewart's job is to make sure things run
smoothly.
Stewart, who grew up in Blyth, has worked at the festival for 12
years and spent the last five as general manager. She works long hours
and her job takes a lot of energy. Her duties include preparing the
budget, overseeing fundraising, special events,
housing, publicity, box office and volunteer co
ordination and working with Artistic Director
Anne Chislett to realize her plans for the season.
Stewart is also in charge of accounting and hiring
administrative staff.
"Because we're non-profit, staffing is always
stressed,” she says.
Due to a $39,900 deficit last year, Stewart was
forced to make 10 per cent cuts to all budgets.
Despite the cuts Stewart emphasizes the quality of the shows will not
be compromised. To recover from the deficit Stewart said more tickets
need to be sold, but she’s optimistic.
“(With) the combination of the staff and the season, I think it is
going to be a great year.”
Stewart enjoys the summer and thinks it is exciting when the cast
and crew starts arriving.
For the first time ever Stewart took a three-week leave of absence
this winter. “It had been about five years since I had any more than five
days off.” Stewart said the three-week vacation rejuvenated her but
does not plan another one this season. “I'm definitely going to work on
it for this winter.” — MN
New fundraiser finds job ‘perfect blend'
Matt Harsant is the newest staff member in the administration office
at the Blyth Festival.
The 24-year-old has worked as Fund Development Co-ordinator for
six weeks. “It is an incredible opportunity to work in Blyth.”
Harsant graduated from the University of Windsor with a degree in
dramatic arts and this winter completed a fundraising course at
Fanshawe. “This is a perfect marriage of interests,” Harsant said.
Harsant's job is to raise money for the festival. Currently Harsant is
finishing membership renewals.
“Organizations, such as the festival, are not-for-profit institutions
and need charitable dollars to stay open,” he said.
During the past year in London Harsant has volunteered with many
London organizations.
Harsant still lives in London and drives from there every day he
works but is considering moving to Huron County.
Come ^lay at ^lyth!
Box Office - 1-519-523-9300 or 1-877-TO-BLYTH
Satirical Comedy June 28 - August 5
Corker
■ Wendy utis , ggggjfIJiillBfilS
Well-known play wrighl and Federal MP Wendy Lili
tstk&s. aim at otrr uncar i ng society in this sharp and
> funnygplay about ap unusuallegacy that disrupts the
ordered lives of an affluent coupler
Mystery Comedy August 22 - September 2
When the Reaper Calls
by Peter Colley
Sold out in our Garage Theatre last year, this funny /.
mystery thriller comes to the main stage. Lust, 5
infidelity, murder, ghosts and greed will have
Everyone on the edges of their seats.
Comedy - Drama July 25 - August 26
The Drawer Boy
By Michael Healey
Blyth Festival proudly presents this award winning
production — a warm, moving and humorous look
at life, rural humour, and the importance of story
Back Stage Pass Saturday, October 14
Blyth Festival Fundraising
Back Stage Pass & Dinner Auction
Preview: 5:00 p.m. Dinner 6:30 p.m.
Auction 8:00 p.m. $30.00 per person