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    CATCO Director Steven C. Anderson to Retire at End of 2019-20 Season

    Steven C. Anderson, one of Central Ohio’s longtime arts leaders and the producing director of CATCO, announced he will retire at the end of the 2019-20 theatre season on June 30, 2020.

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    Since 1978, Anderson has been a leader in Columbus’ arts scene, working as the director of education and associate producing director at Players Theatre and later founding The Phoenix Theatre for Children in 1993. He was tapped to lead the merged theatre organization of CATCO and Phoenix — later renamed CATCO is Kids — in 2010.

    “No one can match the impact Steven has had on our community during the past 40-plus years that he has graced us with his many artistic endeavors,” said Tom Katzenmeyer, Greater Columbus Arts Council President and CEO. “Over the years, he has worked tirelessly to inspire other arts leaders with his creative ideas for innovation and collaboration; mentor young artists ensuring another generation of theatre artists; and enlighten patrons with world premieres, classics and contemporary works.”

    During his career, Anderson has written or adapted more than 75 plays for young audiences and has directed hundreds of productions at a number of theatre organizations. He has also worked to establish educational partnerships with a number of local arts organizations, social service agencies, schools, and correctional facilities.

    In a press release, Anderson said he is most proud of his work with incarcerated adults and introducing theatre to underserved children in the community.

    “In those richly textured interactions, we helped to tell and inspire stories and spark the creative spirits of many who so desperately needed it,” he said. “I look forward to doing more of this work and writing in the next phase of my life.”

    In February, the Central Ohio Theatre Critics Circle awarded him the organization’s Roy Bowen Award for Lifetime Achievement.

    “We share the news of Steven’s upcoming retirement with heavy hearts, but also with admiration and appreciation for the many years he has served us, enriching our lives with his unsurpassed artistic talent and creations,” said Paul Anderson, CATCO board chair.

    CATCO board members and community arts leaders will begin a nationwide search for Anderson’s replacement. That announcement is expected in early 2020.

    For more information visit catco.org.

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    Taijuan Moorman
    Taijuan Moormanhttps://columbusunderground.com
    Taijuan Moorman is a former reporter and social media specialist for Columbus Underground and The Metropreneur who covered civics, arts, entertainment, lifestyle, and business news and features.
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