Release:

The board of directors of Neptune Theatre has announced Lisa Bugden will be leaving her position as General Manager of Neptune Theatre to own and operate a local business.

Paul Laberge, Neptune’s board chair says, “For the past six years, Lisa has steered
Neptune through a time of unprecedented challenges and successes. Her leadership
through the pandemic ensured that Neptune not only survived but was set up to
succeed now that the curtain has come back up again,” says Laberge. “On behalf of
the Board and the entire team at Neptune, I thank Lisa for her enormous contribution
to Neptune and the communities we serve, we wish her all the very best in this new
chapter.”

Neptune’s Artistic Director, Jeremy Webb adds, “The impact of the global pandemic
has reverberated through the arts and culture sector. Our staff have weathered an
incredible storm. It is under Lisa’s leadership that Neptune Theatre remains strong
and vibrant,” says Webb. “I have enjoyed our time together leading Neptune. Lisa is a
strong and steady leader who makes a warm, human connection with artists, donors,
patrons, sponsors and staff. ”
Bugden became General Manager

of Neptune in November 2016 as the theatre
embarked on a $4.5million renovation that saw the building receive a substantial
facelift and upgrade. Other highlights during her tenure include the most successful
show in Neptune’s 60-year history, Mamma Mia!, reinstating Neptune’s popular
summer programming and producing the Canadian regional premiere of The Color
Purple.

Bugden looks back on her six years with Neptune fondly, “It has been a privilege to
be the General Manager of Neptune Theatre. I have met and worked with so many
talented and energetic people,” says Bugden. “Despite the pandemic, we have done
some very interesting work and the support for Neptune from this community has
been truly inspiring.”

“That said, it is time for me to make a change,” Bugden added. “I am very excited
about what the future holds and I look forward to returning to Neptune as an
enthusiastic patron.”

Bugden will remain in her current position until November 4th. Neptune Theatre’s
Board of Directors have begun the process to select a successor. Long-time Neptune
board member, Catherine Bagnell-Styles will act as Interim General Manager. A
senior marketing and communications executive, Catherine has deep leadership
experience across diverse sectors with specialization in brand positioning, marketing,
public relations, partnership marketing and government relations.