CIRCLE THEATRE HEAD OF PRODUCTION +
LEADER ANNOUNCES DEPARTURE
Circle Theatre's Donald Jordan has announced he will step down from his current position at the iconic Fort Worth theatrical institution at end of the current production of THE MOUNTAINTOP.
Jordan is a nationally recognized theatre artist whose work as a theatrical actor, director, designer and artistic leader has been recognized by Actors' Equity Association, the American Theatre Wing, the Theatre Communications Group, three governors, two mayors, the state legislature of Oklahoma and President Joseph Biden.
He has collaborated with hundreds of Tony, Oscar, and Emmy award recipients and nominees in the course of a career that has included performing in 48 of 50 states and all across Canada with Broadway tours, Off-Broadway, and throughout the American professional regional theatre, including luminaries Audra McDonald, Patti LuPone, Bernadette Peters, Mandy Patinkin, the Beach Boys, Franki Valle, and Henny Youngman, among many others.
"When I was asked to come help Circle re-open after the covid pandemic shutdown, I promised to come for one show. Now I have stayed three seasons! I am very proud that all of us working together have raised Circle's creative work to the highest level in its 40+ seasons, and I believe the theatre is now on very solid ground as it looks to the future. The creative excellence and diversity of the programming and productions we have done together in my time here—including local playwrights like Denise Lee and Akin Babatunde, the smash hit musical YOUNGFRANKENSTEIN, classic American plays THE GLASS MENAGERIE, FENCES, and significant contemporary titles like KODACHROME, our recent educational co-production with TCU, and our current show, THEMOUNTAINTOP have earned unprecedented acclaim from patrons, critics and artists alike. I believe now is an opportune time for the talented young artists in the Circle company to meet the next challenges and take this theatre confidently into the future."
Asked about his own future plans, Jordan said:
"I hope to still be of meaningful service to our art and our community, whether thru directing, designing, acting, teaching or creative mentoring and leadership---however I am needed... after a few days off!"
Here at Circle Theatre, we echo the sentiments expressed by President Biden, who in recognizing Jordan's lifetime of service concluded with
"Your work will live forever in the hearts and minds of everyone who has ever seen your work onstage or off. Your country owes you a debt of gratitude and I offer you that on behalf of all Americans."
We couldn't have said it better ourselves!
______________ AN ADDITIONAL THOUGHT FROM CIRCLE THEATRE ____________
It is with deepest gratitude we announce that Donald Jordan, Head of Production has completed histenure with Circle Theatre after three outstanding seasons. Don has been an integral part of the Circle Theatre family and has made invaluable contributions to the organization during his time here.
Don began at Circle on Audrey Cecily’s The Last Wide Open and has worked on every production up through Katori Hall’s The Mountaintop. For nine productions, Don has supported and inspired our team.
As Head of Production, Don has elevated the production value of our shows to new heights, providing our audiences with unforgettable experiences. His creative vision and attention to detail have set the bar high for our productions, and we are grateful for the legacy he leaves behind. Internally, Don has built new systems and procedures which support our production team and staff.
Don has also reinvigorated our outreach program, bringing new ideas and connections to the table. His dedication to the art form and his commitment to sharing it with others has had a profound impact on countless individuals.
Moreover, Don has provided years of knowledge and expertise during our transition period, helping to guide us through important changes and ensuring that we remain true to our mission and vision. He has been a steady hand at the helm, and his leadership has helped to steer the ship in the right direction.
We are incredibly grateful for Don's contributions to Circle Theatre, and we wish him all the best as he continues with future endeavors. His talent, creativity, and dedication will be sorely missed, but his legacy will live on in the productions and programs he helped to create.
OVERALL(s), Thank you, Don, for everything you have done for Circle Theatre. We look forward to seeing the amazing things you will accomplish in the future.