Oregon Shakespeare Festival Names Javier Dubon Interim Executive Director
ASHLAND, Ore. – The Oregon Shakespeare Festival (OSF) has announced Javier (Javi) Dubon as its interim executive director, effective June 23, 2025, following Gabriella Calicchio’s departure on July 1 [1]. Dubon,previously the director of marketing and sales,will oversee operations,finance,and development during the transition as the organization seeks a permanent replacement.
Leadership Transition at OSF
The leadership change comes as Gabriella Calicchio concludes her tenure, which began in November 2024.Rudd Johnson, OSF board chair, expressed gratitude for Calicchio’s contributions and emphasized the prospect for reflection and realignment during this period [1].
Did You Know? The Oregon Shakespeare Festival was founded in 1935 and has grown into a nationally recognized theatre arts organization.
Dubon acknowledged the support he has received from the OSF community. “It has meant more than I can say,” Dubon stated.”That sense of solidarity is shaping how I approach the work ahead.”
Javier Dubon’s Background and Vision
As joining OSF in 2022, Dubon has been instrumental in rebuilding audience trust and stewarding the festival’s public image after the COVID-19 pandemic. Artistic Director Tim Bond praised Dubon’s intellect, passion, and strategic vision [1].
Before OSF,Dubon worked in marketing and audience development at several arts institutions,including Steppenwolf Theatre Company and Texas Performing Arts. He holds a BM in Music Education from the University of Texas at Austin and a MFA in Arts Leadership from The Theatre School at depaul University [1].
pro Tip: Arts leadership roles often require a blend of creative vision and strong business acumen.
Dubon aims to maintain the company’s momentum, fostering stability and collaboration. “At its best, OSF is a place where artists, audiences, and staff come together to build and experience something larger than any one of us,” Dubon said.
The Oregon Shakespeare festival: A Cultural Gem
Located in Ashland, Oregon, the Oregon Shakespeare Festival presents a rotating repertory season of plays and musicals, including Shakespearean works, enduring classics, and new works. The festival’s annual budget was $35.8 million as of 2022, highlighting its meaningful impact on the arts community [1].
| Key Personnel | Title | Effective Date |
|---|---|---|
| Javier (Javi) Dubon | Interim Executive Director | June 23, 2025 |
| Gabriella Calicchio | Outgoing Executive Director | July 1, 2025 |
| Tim Bond | Artistic Director | Current |
What are your hopes for the Oregon Shakespeare Festival’s future? How can arts organizations best navigate leadership transitions?
Evergreen Insights: The Enduring Appeal of Shakespeare and Live Theatre
The Oregon Shakespeare Festival’s commitment to presenting both classic and contemporary works reflects the enduring appeal of live theatre. Shakespeare’s plays, written over 400 years ago, continue to resonate with audiences due to their timeless themes of love, loss, ambition, and revenge. The festival’s ability to reinterpret these classics while also showcasing new voices ensures its relevance in a rapidly changing world.
Moreover, live theatre offers a unique and irreplaceable experience in an age dominated by digital entertainment.The shared experience of witnessing a performance, the immediacy of the actors’ presence, and the potential for unexpected moments create a powerful connection between performers and audience members. This connection fosters empathy, encourages critical thinking, and enriches our understanding of the human condition.
FAQ About the Oregon Shakespeare Festival
- What types of performances does the Oregon Shakespeare Festival offer?
- The festival presents a rotating repertory season of plays and musicals, including shakespearean works, enduring classics, and new works.
- Where is the Oregon Shakespeare Festival located?
- The festival is located in Ashland, Oregon.
- When was the Oregon Shakespeare Festival founded?
- The festival was founded in 1935.
- How can I purchase tickets to the Oregon Shakespeare Festival?
- Tickets can be purchased thru the festival’s website or by calling the box office.
- Does the Oregon Shakespeare festival offer educational programs?
- yes, the festival offers a variety of educational programs for students and adults.
Share your thoughts on this leadership transition and the future of the Oregon Shakespeare Festival in the comments below! Don’t forget to share this article with fellow theatre enthusiasts.
