PHOENIXVILLE, PA — Phoenixville’s Colonial Theatre will appoint Artistic Director Drew Boardman as interim executive director on July 25 as Jennifer Carlson leaves after four years overseeing revenue growth, capital improvements and the nonprofit’s post-pandemic recovery.
Carlson will step down July 24 after more than four years as executive director.
Boardman joined the Colonial in 2021 and has served as events and engagement manager, events director and artistic director. He will lead the organization while its board searches for a permanent successor.
The search committee is working to retain an executive search firm and aims to name a new executive director by early 2027.
The Colonial plans to continue its scheduled programming, educational offerings and preservation initiatives during the transition. Its existing leadership team will remain in place.
Carlson joined the theater in April 2022 as it worked to rebuild attendance and operations following the pandemic. During her tenure, annual revenue surpassed $2.1 million, attendance returned to near pre-pandemic levels and the organization completed nearly $500,000 in preservation and capital work.
Those projects included restoration of the historic west wall and center ceiling medallion, installation of a 4K laser projection system, electrical modernization and lighting and safety upgrades.
The Colonial also secured public and private grants, including a $100,000 construction grant from the Pennsylvania Historical & Museum Commission.
“Historic theatres don’t survive because of one person; they survive because generations of people choose to care for them,” Carlson said. “I’m incredibly grateful to have worked alongside so many dedicated individuals who share that commitment.”
Programming expanded during Carlson’s tenure to include additional concerts, comedy performances, educational offerings and immersive theatrical experiences. The theater also continued growing Blobfest, its annual celebration of the 1958 science-fiction film “The Blob.”
Board President Meghan Sutherland credited Carlson with strengthening the organization’s finances, infrastructure and programming.
“The Board has full confidence in our staff leadership team, our strategic direction, and Drew Boardman’s ability to guide the organization during this interim period,” Sutherland said.
Boardman stated that he plans to continue working with the theater’s staff, board, volunteers and supporters as the organization implements the strategic plan adopted under Carlson.
The plan focuses on programming, preservation, financial sustainability, audience development and community engagement.
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