MANSFIELD — After an illustrious tenure spanning 15 years as the Renaissance Theatreβs acclaimed Artistic Director, Michael Thomas, is set to embark on a new chapter as he steps into the role of Artistic Consultant for the organization.
In light of this change, the Renaissance Performing Arts Association is taking the opportunity to celebrate and express gratitude for Thomas’s phenomenal contributions that have shaped the institution’s creative landscape.
Under his visionary leadership, Thomas has directed nearly 100 productions, including especially notable performances such as, βAssassins,β “A Gentleman’s Guide to Love and Murder,β βOnce,β “Sweeney Todd,” “Mamma Mia,” βDreamgirls,β and countless others.
His innovative spirit and artistic excellence have left an indelible mark on the Renaissance stage, particularly through his development of new works and his commitment to programming pieces that challenge and inspire audiences and artists alike.
Acknowledging Thomas’s immense contribution, Chelsie Thompson, Renaissance President and CEO, expressed profound gratitude.
“Michael Thomas has been a driving force behind the Renaissance’s artistic journey,” Thompson said. “His dedication and creative brilliance have been invaluable in shaping our organization into the beacon of creativity it is today, and we are so grateful to him for choosing to share his talents here in Mansfield.β
Originally hailing from New London, Thomas is an alum of the Conservatory of Music at Oberlin College and Wright State University.
His journey to the Renaissance was marked by significant achievements, including musical directing national tours of The Secret Garden and Once On This Island.
While in Chicago, Thomas co-wrote the long-running βHamlet: The Musicalβ with Jeff Richmond, performed with The Second City, and also received three coveted Joseph Jefferson Awards for his theatre work, including βWith or Without Wings,β which was named βBest New Play of 2001.β
His original musical, βMelancholy Babyβ (also written with Jeff Richmond) was the inaugural show at New York Cityβs acclaimed Ars Nova Theatre in 2002.
Thomas chose to premiere several of his original works at the Ren, including “At Last: An Evening with Etta James,” βHot Mess: A Lethal New Musical,β βTwilight Gardens,β βThe Last Act,β “Remember Me Always: Highschool Yearbook 1977,” and the βHeartachesβ film for Ren Studios.
These shows, among many others, have captivated audiences and showcased his extraordinary creative prowess.
Thomas was especially instrumental in the establishment of the Emerging Artists Program, spearheading this pioneering initiative and fostering new works for the stage and film, showcasing the Renaissance’s commitment to innovation and nurturing upcoming talent, and bringing national recognition to the Renaissanceβs artistic programming.
Jason Painley, Chairman of the Renaissance Board of Directors, honored the broad scope of Michaelβs artistic contributions.
βThe artistic excellence that defines the Renaissance bears the signature of Michael Thomas,” Painley said. “His talent, leadership, and network have brought the national spotlight to our community and to 138 Park Avenue West.
“His contributions, like our gratitude, will be enduring.β
As Thomas transitions from Artistic Director at the end of December, he will remain an active voice as the organizationβs Artistic Consultant, serving as an invaluable resource and continuing to oversee the organizationβs Emerging Artist program.
Stepping into the role of Interim Artistic Director, the Renaissance welcomes Angela Iannone with the start of the new year.
Angela, with Thomas’s endorsement, brings her own remarkable talents and artistic vision to the forefront.
She steps into this role with enthusiasm, having recently showcased her talents in the spring production of Follies and set to perform a one-woman rendition of A Christmas Carol in December at Theatre 166.
Thomas’s final production, “Hello, Dolly!” starring Tony Award nominee Jennifer Simard and Emmy Award winner Jeff Richmond, will mark a grand finale to his tenure as Artistic Director.
Mansfield is invited to celebrate Michael Thomas’s extraordinary 15-year legacy through this spectacular performance, which opens Nov. 11.
“We thank Michael Thomas for his remarkable contributions and look forward to continuing to grow the incredible legacy that he established,” the Renaissance Theatre noted in a press release.