“It takes all hands to plan and execute successful events and it’s typical to see both staff and volunteers serving in various capacities and pinch-hitting for each other to get the job done.” – Mary Dennis

1. What is your name, and how long have you been living and working in Summerside?

2. What was your journey to landing as the Executive Director of the Harbourfront Theatre?

I was hired at Harbourfront when it opened in 1996, started out doing front of house management, human resources, administration and then moving on to box office and theatre rentals, developed a volunteer program and those and many more duties led me to serving as Director of Operations for many years until finally, in January 2023, I assumed the role of Executive Director for the theatre.

3. What would be a fun fact that most people wouldn’t know about working for the Harbourfront Theatre?

Like many theatres, we are rumoured to have a ghost or two lurking about, and quite a few staff over the years have reported seeing and hearing things they couldn’t explain, including me! All harmless fun though, so our spectres seem to be quite friendly!

4. What is the work culture like at the Harbourfront Theatre?

We are a close-knit team, and we all rely a great deal on one another to accomplish the day’s work. It takes all hands to plan and execute successful events and it’s typical to see both staff and volunteers serving in various capacities and pinch-hitting for each other to get the job done.

5. Why did you choose Summerside to live and work? 

As I said, I was born and raised here, and like many others, have tried living and working elsewhere but always ended up coming home. Family ties would definitely be a factor, but I also love the more relaxed pace we experience here, and it doesn’t hurt to be steps away from the beach at any time and have, in my opinion, the world’s best ice cream (Holman’s) just around the corner!

6. What is one business that you wish Summerside had?

7. If someone was thinking about moving to live and work in Summerside, what advice would you give them?

Take the time to really find out all there is to experience and enjoy here! We have so many wonderful community facilities here for entertainment, recreation and cultural enrichment in our ‘City by the Sea’. Our outstanding mayor has open office hours – go meet him! And of course, please come and visit us at Harbourfront Theatre as soon as you can – we are known as ‘Our Theatre, Your Theatre’ for a reason! Pop in and say hello, let us give you a tour and show you all we have to offer.

Visit the Harbourfront Theatre today!

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