The Weathervane Theatre
The Weathervane Theatre was founded in 1966 by Gibbs Murray and the late Tom Haas. Originally housed in a 145+-year-old barn, the Theatre found a welcoming home in Whitefield where, for three decades prior, the venerable Chase Barn had been home to professional summer theatre in the region. With their signature summer schedule of seven shows in alternating repertory, open staging (made distinctive with fixed balcony and raked pie), the Weathervane has developed, and continues to practice, a singular style of live theatre that engages audiences and challenges performers and staff to adapt, create, and craft approaches both creative and practical. A not-for-profit institution governed by a Board of Directors, the Weathervane remains true to the artistic vision of the Founders, with Gibbs Murray contributing stage and graphic design, as well as serving on the Board. Artistic Director Jacques Stewart and Managing Director Lyn Winter contribute, between them, decades of Weathervane experience, with Winter responsible for Executive Administration year-round. In addition to their unique and ambitious performance schedule, the Weathervane offers a tuitioned intern program for college-age students, theatre camp for ages 7 through 17, and special events and activities throughout the year. The Weathervane operates under a contract with Actors' Equity Association, offering superb performers with a body of professional experience. Support comes from an active Alumni Association, grantorsamong them, the NH State Council on the Arts and New Hampshire Charitable Foundationalong with the generosity of businesses and individuals from North Country and well beyond. The Weathervane Theatre is a founding member of the NH Professional Theatre Association.
Rob Dionne
Robert Dionne is the Founding and Artistic Director of Manchester, NH's own The Majestic Theatre, which, at the age of 17, he started with friends in the summer of 1991. Since then, The Majestic has grown to become NH's largest producer of theatre for and by the community. Robert has a Bachelor of Music Education degree from the University of Maine (Orono), where he studied a complete coursework in Music Education and Vocal and Instrumental Performance, as well as served as Associate Conductor and Intern for several music and theatre programs while there. He has worked freelance with many area theatre companies as a director, musical director and actor, including The Majestic, Community Players of Concord, Leddy Center, New Thalian Players, Nottingham Theatre Project, Hampstead Middle School Drama, Nashua Theatre Guild, Manchester Community Players/Second Stage, and Mayhem & Murder Productions. Robert lives in Manchester (and part-time in Ogunquit, Maine) with his three (yes three!) cats Charlotte, Cordelia, and Midnight. He thanks everyone who has ever taken part in The Majestic Theatre's productions and who has contributed to its success.