Good Morning, Saint Paul: The Future of Park Square Theatre

Stephen DiMenna’s appointment as Park Square Theatre’s new Executive Artistic Director marks the dawn of an exciting new era for the beloved Saint-Paul theater. With over 30 years of experience directing and producing for stage and screen, DiMenna brings a wealth of expertise and creative vision to helm Park Square into its next chapter. His journey has taken him from humble Chicago roots to the bright lights of Broadway and beyond, preparing him for the monumental task of leading one of the Midwest’s most prestigious cultural institutions.

Originally from Chicago, DiMenna discovered his passion for directing at a young age. In 1994, he made the move to New York City to pursue his artistic ambitions. Over the next 14 years, DiMenna would be directing numerous off-Broadway productions and honing his skills under the guidance of industry veterans such as Bobby Lupone and Bernie Telsey. His success in the Big Apple was not a light task, but hard work and time invested in leading a small 99-seat theater that provided the hands-on experience vital to running an organization like Park Square today.

As Park Square reopens after a period of closure, DiMenna wasted no time in making his mark. He has crafted an exciting theme for the 2024/2025 season entitled, “New Beginnings,” reflecting stories of redemption, rebirth, and renewal. The diverse range of productions will mirror the theater’s own fresh start under DiMenna’s leadership. As Board President Mark Howlett stated, “Stephen’s knowledge, passion and commitment perfectly align with our vision for the future of Park Square.”

Beyond the symbolic theme, DiMenna also recognizes the tangible steps needed to usher in Park Square’s next era. He understands the importance of attracting new and younger audiences, as well as expanding diversity on stage and behind the scenes. While staying true to the theater’s long legacy, DiMenna aims to balance beloved traditions with innovative contemporary works that reflect the cities’ vibrant diversity.

Throughout his accomplished career, Stephen DiMenna has always viewed theater as far more than entertainment. He sees it as a catalyst to inspire self-discovery, bring communities together, and give voice to diverse stories and perspectives. These values drive DiMenna’s passion to make Park Square a space where all can feel welcome, seen, and heard. His commitment to inclusion goes beyond the main stage, as evidenced by his 18-year involvement with the International Theatre Project. DiMenna has led educational and empowering theater initiatives in disadvantaged communities abroad, using art as a vehicle for positive change. These transformative experiences motivate him to bring Park Square’s productions and outreach efforts to new heights.

Park Square’s great repuation as one of the Midwest’s largest and most influential theaters is honestly in the best of hands at this time. With the power to shape discourse around pressing social issues, DiMenna envisions productions that get audiences thinking and connecting. He wants Park Square to be more than a pastime, but an inspiration towards empathy, bridge divides, and lift up marginalized voices.

While selecting seasons that engage and entertain, DiMenna also chooses works that provoke continued reflection or debate around relevant themes. He believes, “-the theater has a duty to produce diverse, socially conscious stories, even if they push audiences outside their comfort zones.” Under DiMenna’s leadership, Park Square will challenge perceptions and foster dialogue on contemporary issues.

DiMenna has confidently mentioned that community is priority- and that the potential to sit in on script reads for patrons lays as an option to keep the tradition of Park Square theater’s ambiance. The poise and excitement he spoke with while explaining his vision continues to ensure the theater public that Park Square is getting ready to elevate to levels unimaginable. Those who walked have allowed an upward movement and path for DiMenna’s inspiration to lead.

As Park Square Theatre prepares to raise its iconic curtain this winter, the Twin Cities arts community buzzes with enthusiasm for Stephen DiMenna’s bold vision. With infectious optimism and a wealth of experience, he stands poised to lead Park Square into an era defined by inclusion, innovation, and community engagement. By attracting new audiences while staying true to longtime patrons, DiMenna will craft seasons that resonate with the diverse mosaic of the Twin Cities. His artistry and social conscience aim to make Park Square a vibrant reflection of the world outside its doors.

Though challenges inevitably lie ahead, DiMenna embraces the future with an earnest dedication to inspire change, spread joy, and celebrate the transformative power of theater. As he settles into the role, his immediate focus is on assembling a creative team that shares his values and artistic vision.

DiMenna aims to mentor and empower other theater professionals, just as he was mentored earlier in his career. He expressed that, “ there is a deep commitment and responsibility to nurturing diverse emerging directors, designers, and playwrights—especially those of BIPOC”. DiMenna also recognizes that accessibility and affordability are key to removing barriers that have made theater seem elite or exclusive. He intends to expand Park Square’s educational programs and community partnerships to welcome new audiences.

At the same time, DiMenna understands the importance of honoring longtime subscribers and supporters who have been the theater’s foundation. He believes a blend of innovation and tradition is key; while taking risks on contemporary works, Park Square will still deliver the classics its devoted fans cherish. DiMenna sees the theater’s rich history not as a boundary but as a foundation for future growth.

There is much anticipation surrounding what DiMenna and his team will bring to Park Square’s stages next season and beyond. However, the true measure of his leadership will be the theater’s lasting impact on artists, audiences, and the wider Saint Paul community. More than box office numbers and critical reviews, DiMenna defines success through the empathy, understanding, and sense of belonging the theater can foster. Though challenges inevitably lie ahead, DiMenna embraces the future with an earnest dedication to inspire.