Parison, who was associate producer for Barrington's 2008 summer season, will assume his new position Sept. 15.

In a statement Barrington board president Mary Ann Quinson said, "Richard is a strong and successful addition to the leadership of Barrington Stage Company. He and [artistic director] Julie Boyd share an energy and enthusiasm for the theatre, the work and the community. Their partnership will enhance BSC's many producing programs and our outstanding educational endeavors. We are fortunate to have him with us just in time for our 15th Anniversary Season."

Artistic director Boyd added, "I am so thrilled that Richard is joining BSC at this important moment in the theatre's development. We have transitioned from a summer theatre to a year-round theatre, now producing twelve shows a year vs. just six shows three years ago. Richard brings the expertise, leadership, diplomacy and true theatre know-how we've been seeking for a long time."

In his new position Parison will be responsible for Barrington Stage's institutional, administrative and producing affairs. He will also guide the theatre's strategic planning effort through fiscal stability, audience development, community relations and external affairs.

Parison spent four years as associate producing director for the Prince Music Theatre and eight seasons as the associate to producing artistic director Bernard Havard at the Walnut Street Theatre. Parison stated, "Barrington Stage is an American theatre in the truest sense of the word. It has a passionate and lasting commitment to its mission and community. I have long been an admirer of BSC, its Musical Theater Lab and all its accomplishments under the brilliant artistic direction of Julie Boyd.

"Barrington Stage is a driving force in the creative economy both in Pittsfield, as part of the city's on-going revitalization, and in Berkshire County. Ultimately it's a once in a lifetime opportunity to partner with Julie to produce and support the continuation of Barrington's signature excellence in theatre. I am looking forward to adding my energy to the cause of championing and supporting Barrington Stage Company."

Barrington Stage Company is located in Pittsfield, MA. For more information about the professional award-winning Equity theatre, visit barringtonstageco.org.

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Barrington's mission is three-fold: "to present top-notch, compelling work; to develop new plays and musicals; and to find fresh, bold ways of bringing new audiences into the theatre."