Riverside Theatre Appoints Fred T. Paul as New COO and Managing Director

Riverside Theatre Welcomes New Leadership

Riverside Theatre, the largest independent nonprofit professional theatre in Florida, has announced the appointment of Fred T. Paul as its new Managing Director and Chief Operating Officer (COO). This decision marks a significant update in leadership, as Paul takes on duties previously managed by Jon R. Moses, who transitions to the role of Executive Producer and CEO.

For over 50 years, Riverside Theatre has proudly served as a cultural pillar in the Treasure Coast area, offering outstanding performances and educational initiatives that resonate with local communities. As they move forward, Riverside aims to foster a more inclusive and versatile campus, designed to support ambitious artistic endeavors and reach a wider audience. This vision aligns with their commitment to inspire future generations through the arts.

Fred T. Paul comes to Riverside Theatre with a wealth of experience, most recently held at the Olney Theatre Center in Maryland. During his nearly 15-year tenure there, he played a crucial role in overseeing significant transformations, including the upgrade of the theater's 14-acre campus. His extensive background in finance, budgeting, and human resources has prepared him to lead Riverside Theatre into its next chapter. Paul’s educational credentials include a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Theatre Production and Management from Auburn University, giving him the unique perspective needed to understand both operational leadership and the creative process.

Jon R. Moses, now at the helm as Executive Director, expressed his confidence in Paul’s abilities, saying, "Fred brings an exceptional blend of operational knowledge and financial oversight, along with a profound respect for the creative arts. His collaborative nature makes him the perfect fit for Riverside Theatre during this exciting time."

In his acceptance, Paul echoed enthusiasm about his new role: “I am genuinely thrilled to be joining Riverside Theatre. The passion for artistic excellence and community connection here is palpable. I'm eager to contribute to the efforts as we engage and inspire even more audiences.”

Paul's appointment follows a comprehensive nationwide search led by Michele Counter and James Abruzzo from DHR Global's Arts Nonprofit Practice. The goal was to find a leader who could further integrate the theatre’s artistic goals with community interests, and it seems they have found an ideal candidate.

About Riverside Theatre

Located in Vero Beach, Florida, Riverside Theatre is recognized as a major professional theatre in small-town America. It operates in partnership with several prestigious artists' unions, including Actors' Equity, for a complete season of Broadway-quality productions and community programs. Under Jon R. Moses’s leadership, Riverside is not only a premiere cultural destination but also an educational hub that provides year-round arts education for both youth and adults.

The theatre consistently expands its outreach through a variety of programming, including concerts and civic events aimed at enriching the cultural fabric of the region. Additionally, Riverside features Star Suites, a dedicated extended-stay hotel for visiting artists and guests, and The Loop Kitchen and Bar, which offers a vibrant dining experience paired with live music.

Riverside Theatre remains committed to providing no-cost programs for local students, working in tandem with important community organizations to ensure its campus continues to thrive as a center for arts and culture.

In conclusion, with Fred T. Paul stepping into the role of COO, Riverside Theatre is poised for a period of growth and innovation, creating even more opportunities for engagement within the vibrant Vero Beach community. Plans for the future are ambitious, but with Paul’s leadership, Riverside Theatre looks set to further its legacy of artistic and community excellence.