Former Tony nominee Susan Egan has been named Interim Artistic Director of California's Orange County High School of the Arts.
Egan, who is an alumna of the 15-year-old school, will serve as the artistic director of the Music and Theatre, Film and Television and Production and Design departments. She will take over the position recently vacated by David Green while the school conducts a search for a permanent director. During her time at the school, Egan will be responsible for overseeing the expansion of the arts instructional program, assisting in bringing professional artists to teach and direct, and bringing in renowned artists for special appearances.
Ralph Opacic, the Executive Director of the nationally recognized high school, recently commented, "The Orange County High School of the Arts has completed its 15th year, and we now have the opportunity to ascend to the next level by bringing in Susan Egan to expand our programs. As a member of our first graduating class in 1987 who has gone on to incredible success in the performing arts, she is a wonderful role model for our students, as well as an expert with the knowledge and connections to help us strengthen our programs in the future."
In addition to her credits as a performer — Broadway's Beauty and the Beast, Triumph of Love and Cabaret — Egan has taught master classes at several California universities as well as at New York's Circle in the Square Theatre. She has also participated in several Artists in the Schools programs and has mentored for the Young Playwrights Festival in Los Angeles. About her new role, Egan said, "I'm thrilled for the chance to apply my practical knowledge and my professional colleagues to the task of creating an essential curriculum and performance opportunities that will allow OCHSA students to not only compete in today's industry, but to take the performing arts to the next level."
The Orange County High School of the Arts provides pre-professional training to visual and performing arts students throughout Southern California. Go to www.ocsarts.net for more information. —By Andrew Gans
