By Allan Haley
NEWBURYPORT – When Shauna Pieniazek, president of the Board of Directors at the Newburyport’s Firehouse Center for the Arts, came to Newburyport from Boston 30 years ago with her husband, Matt, she brought a love and understanding of theater.
“My marketing team (for Marriott hotels) worked on partnerships with the Broadway theaters.That’s where I fell in love with the theater,” she said.
The Pieniazeks became regulars at Firehouse performances. and today she is the spirit of a dedicated director.
When asked about her plans for The Firehouse, Shauna said her first goal has been to staff the theater fully. “Coming out of COVID was a difficult time for the theater, and staffing was at the top of the list.”
Liz Shapiro was brought on as director of operations, and Bonnie Butkas was hired last month as The Firehouse’s new executive director.
“Our longer-term goals focus on expanding and enhancing what we offer to the greater Newburyport community. Our platform already features New Works plays – original stories told with passion and purpose. We will celebrate women’s talents with the Women in Music series and honor female contributions during Women’s History Month. Real. Life. Stories. returns with six ten-minute plays about everyday people facing unique experiences,” she said.
“Much more is planned for the year,” Shauna continues, including a Main Stage Production of School of Rock from the Firehouse this summer and many other concerts, comedy, and productions – and a few surprises.
“Our year-long educational initiatives will grow, engaging younger and adult audiences with creative development and participation opportunities.
“We are also renewing local artistic partnerships and forming new collaborations to strengthen our role as a fully community-based center for youth, families, and seniors.”
There’s a lot of good happening at The Firehouse, and Shauna is at its center.
Note: Butkas was previously with the Merrimack Repertory Theater in Lowell when it broke all attendance records for events with its 40th Anniversary Gala. ©
