Syracuse Stage managing director Anderson leaving for a new job this summer

SYRACUSE, N.Y. — Jill Anderson, managing director of Syracuse Stage since 2016,will leave the organization this summer after eight years.

Anderson is departing to become managing director of the Minneapolis Children’s Theatre Company, the nation’s largest and most acclaimed theatre for young people, Syracuse Stage said in announcing Anderson’s upcoming departure.

She will continue as managing director at Syracuse Stage for the remainder of the 50th anniversary season, concluding her eight-year tenure when she departs at the end of the company’s fiscal year in early July, per the announcement.

“Being part of Syracuse Stage and the Central New York community these last eight seasons has been a tremendous privilege,” Anderson said in the release. “I’m so proud of what Stage’s staff and board have built — upon an already strong foundation — and look forward to seeing a thriving Syracuse Stage in the years ahead.”

The board of trustees and senior management of Syracuse Stage are currently formulating a plan to seek Anderson’s successor. That plan will be announced soon, the nonprofit said.

Located at 820 E. Genesee St. in the city, Syracuse Stage is the nonprofit, professional theatre company in residence at Syracuse University.

Anderson joined Syracuse Stage at about the same time that Robert Hupp started serving as artistic director in 2016. She was responsible for fundraising, marketing, and operational oversight during seven straight years of operating surpluses.

Her work to strengthen the company’s financial foundation helped Syracuse Stage maintain full employment during the pandemic while positioning the company for future growth, the organization said.

Under Anderson’s leadership — and in partnership with Hupp and the board of trustees— Syracuse Stage “increased its reputation” as a leading regional theatre, the organization contends. Besides her work with Syracuse Stage, Anderson taught theatre–management courses in the Syracuse University Department of Drama.

“While we celebrate this next chapter in Jill’s life and career, the news is bittersweet,”Hupp said. “It has been a highlight of my career to work in partnership with Jill these past eight seasons, and everyone at Syracuse Stage will miss Jill’s warm-hearted and thoughtful leadership.”