New Leadership at Point Park University’s Pittsburgh Playhouse and Conservatory of Performing Arts Friday, June 11, 2021
Garfield Lemonius, M.F.A.
"Garfield Lemonius brings an exceptional level of leadership and vision to the role of dean and artistic director of the Conservatory. His strong background in arts and entertainment and his student-centered approach to learning and performance make him the ideal leader for this critical role.”
Garfield Lemonius, M.F.A., has been appointed acting dean and artistic director of the Conservatory of Performing Arts and artistic director of the Pittsburgh Playhouse at Point Park University. Lemonius previously served as chair of the Department of Dance.
“Garfield brings an exceptional level of leadership and vision to the role of dean and artistic director of the Conservatory,” said Point Park University President Paul Hennigan. “His strong background in arts and entertainment and his student-centered approach to learning and performance make him the ideal leader for this critical role.”
A native of Jamaica and Canada, Lemonius’s career includes performing in film, with contemporary companies and in solo guest works across the U.S., Canada and Europe.
At Point Park University, Lemonius has been responsible for ushering in innovative dance and academic programming. He established a virtual speaker series during the pandemic to help connect students with thought leaders in the dance field, and most recently, led an effort to partner with Minding the Gap, a Pittsburgh-based, non-profit organization dedicated to helping improve dancers’ mental health and access to services.
“I’m honored and humbled by this appointment and the support the University leadership has shown me and I’m privileged to work with the exceptional Playhouse staff and faculty,” said Lemonius. “My goal is to ensure that the Pittsburgh Playhouse continues to support the academic mission of the University, provide our students with exceptional performing opportunities, and present Pittsburgh audiences with compelling, entertaining and innovative productions.”
The Pittsburgh Playhouse will be announcing its comprehensive 2021-22 season on Thursday, June 24, during the inaugural performance of Inside/Outside, the new summer music festival being presented every Thursday and Friday from June 24 - July 30 with partner organizations MCG Jazz, Chatham Baroque and Pittsburgh Chamber Orchestra. The June 24 event will run from 4:30-6:30 p.m. Visit www.playhouse.pointpark.edu for more information.