Press Releases

Manasquan - Algonquin Arts today announced the appointment of Stephanie Chaiken as the new Artistic Director and William Whitefield as the new Education Director of the performing arts center located in Manasquan, NJ.

Stephanie Chaiken New Artistic Director for Algonquin Arts

Ms. Chaiken, brings diverse skills from a distinguished career bringing organizations to new levels of success. Her expertise as Booking Agent, Manager, Producer, Talent Buyer, Entertainment and Events Director and Marketing Coordinator, will be instrumental in helping the Algonquin achieve its mission to expand and enhance programming and become the premier performing arts center in the region.

Most recently, Ms. Chaiken has been President of S.C. Entertainment in New York City, representing and booking national and international music, dance and other live performing artists into a wide range of adult and children�s venues. She has produced acclaimed live touring shows from licensed television and film properties. She also established a successful framework for the education and outreach program at Mountain Laurel Center for the Performing Arts. Ms. Chaiken has long admired Algonquin Arts and was the person responsible for bringing Grand D�rangement to the Algonquin in 2006 and selling out the house. "My introduction to the Algonquin came through the Consortium of Eastern Regional Theaters," said Ms. Chaiken. "I was impressed with the diverse range of programs offered here and the manner and passion in which they were presented."

Stephanie has served on the Board of Directors for the Children�s Entertainment Association and is involved with many theatre arts organizations. She earned a B.A. in English and Drama at Franklin and Marshall College and is working on her M.A. in Theatre Arts from Emerson College.

"Stephanie brings real depth to our staff with her solid background and experience on both sides of the artistic entertainment world," said Patrick O�Hagan, Algonquin Arts� Executive Director. "We are looking forward to greatly enhanced and very exciting programming thanks to Stephanie�s expertise."

William Whitefield New Education Director for Algonquin Arts

Mr. Whitefield brings an extensive and diverse background in the arts. Most recently he has taught Acting, Musical Theatre and Acting for Stage and Film for the Algonquin Theatre Arts program.

He is an accomplished actor/performer on the stage and screen, having traveled across the country and in Europe including Broadway, off-Broadway and major national tours. A published composer and lyricist, he has numerous scores and libretti to his credit. He also has been music director, vocal arranger and conductor for gala events at regional arts centers.

Bill was writer, director, choreographer and co-producer of Kids with Heart presented at the Tribeca Performing Arts Center in New York City, as part of his volunteer work with the organization FACES: "Fight Against Childhood Epilepsy & Seizures.

Bill has strong administrative skills required as well, having served as Assistant Artistic Director for the Cherry County Playhouse in Michigan for three years. Bill earned a Bachelor of Arts in Theatre from Pepperdine University, Malibu, California.

"I am thrilled to be here at Algonquin Arts as it grows and to watch it continue to reach an even broader spectrum of people." said Bill. "I am a firm believer in the value of arts education for all members of the community and I am committed to seeing the programs here really flourish."

"We are delighted to welcome Bill on board," said Patrick O�Hagan, Executive Director of Algonquin Arts. "As we look to expand our education programs, with a renewed focus on life-long learning and reaching all segments of our community, Bill will be key to helping achieve these goals."