Indiana Repertory Theatre announce new director of inclusion

The Indiana Repertory Theatre announced Nov. 1 it has hired an inclusion and community partnerships director, a new position for the organization.

Indianapolis native Devon Ginn will step into his new role as director of inclusion and community partnerships this month following 8 1/2 years as a curator at the Madam Walker Legacy Center.

“I am elated to join a robust and dynamic team actively producing world-class, inclusive theater for the masses in the heart of Indiana,” Ginn said in a statement. “Inclusion, Diversity, Equity and Access work requires stamina and compassion. I’m grateful for the foundation laid by senior leadership to ensure the IRT exists as a refuge for artists and patrons across identity strata.”

Ginn, who is also a writer, nonprofit administrator and performance artist, has been awarded fellowships with Americans for the Arts, the National Endowment for the Arts/Indiana Arts Commission and the Indy Arts Council.

Additionally, Ginn serves as a board member for BlackSpace Urbanist Collective and as vice president of the board for Indiana Writers Center. 

Through Ginn’s new position, IRT aims to expand its equitable programming, inclusive environments and connections. Suzanne Sweeney, managing director for IRT said Ginn’s position is something the IRT has been working toward developing for many years, and “it is a meaningful step in the organization’s ongoing commitment to community connections and IDEA work.”

“The IRT is excited to welcome Devon to the organization and looks forward to learning from and sharing in his ideas as the Director of Inclusion and Community Partnerships,” Sweeney said in a statement. “His years of experience in the arts, theatre and many other facets of the community make them a wonderful choice for this role.”

Ginn’s work will aim to expand IRT’s local partnerships as well as “nurture relationships with community leaders.” He will also work alongside staff members to identify diverse organizations and individuals to partner with as IRT continues its work toward becoming an anti-racist, inclusive organization.

“Devon’s enthusiasm for this work is infectious,” Sweeney said, “and he is a wonderful match for this critical position.”

Contact staff writer Chloe McGowan at 317-762-7848 or chloegm@indyrecorder.com. Follow her on Twitter @chloe_mcgowanxx.

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