Sandusky State Theatre names new director

SANDUSKY — The Sandusky State Theatre's board has named Chris Parthemore, 37, to serve as the new executive director for the theater.Parthemore, formerly the chairman of the theater board, had been serving as the interim director for about four months, following the departure of David Taylor in October. Parthemore has worked for seven years as practice administrator for Family Eye Care Centers. He takes over March 20.Parthemore said Friday that at first he had not thought of taking the job himself."As I was in the interim role, at first I didn't think about it at all. Some other board members approached me about thinking about it. Eventually it just grew on me," he said.Board members said they settled on Parthemore after carrying out an extensive search."The committee conducted a thorough search for a new director which included applicants as far away as Oklahoma," said Paul Koch, co-chairman of the search committee. "We were impressed with Chris' business experience and his excitement for the theater. Chris is committed long term to the City of Sandusky, the theater, and most importantly the patrons of the theater.""Chris' business background, passion for the arts, and strong ties in the community made him stand out among the candidates," said Kim Redfern, the other co-chair. "We are thrilled that we were able to find a local candidate who loves Sandusky and is committed to the area.""To me, the theater belongs to the community," Parthemore said. "I always love to hear community feedback about what they want to see."Parthemore said he is eager to pursue partnerships with other organizations in the area. The theater has recently collaborated with the Caryl Crane Youth Theatre, and Parthemore said he is talking with the Listening Room in Port Clinton.Last year, the theater, which dates back to 1928, received a $750,000 grant from the state's capital improvements program. Renovations are being carried out in the 1,500-seat theater using the grant money.Parthemore said getting ready for Gov. John Kasich's April 4 State of the State speech at Sandusky State Theatre also is a priority."We want to have the theater looking its absolute best for the governor," Parthemore said.Parthmore, who has served on several area boards, is a 1998 graduate of Perkins High School and a 2003 graduate of Bowling Green State University. He's a 2010 graduate of Leadership Erie County.Reach reporter Tom Jackson at jackson@sanduskyregister.com and follow him on Twitter @jacksontom.Chris Parthemore, the new executive director of the Sandusky State Theatre, stands inside the theatre on Friday, March 3, 2017.