Season of Concern announces new Managing Director Christopher Pazdernik
The Season of Concern Managing Director Board of Directors proudly announces the appointment of the organization’s new Managing Director, Christopher Pazdernik. A dedicated professional in the Chicago theater community, Pazdernik comes to the position from Theo Ubique and previously Chicago Shakespeare Theater, Porchlight Music Theatre and Refuge Theatre Project. Pazdernik succeeds Michael Ryczek, who was with Season of Concern for 20 years.
Marcelle McVay, President of the Board of Directors of Season of Concern comments, “The Board of Directors is enthusiastic about working with Christopher Pazdernik as our new Managing Director as he continues the fine work of Michael Ryczek. Chris brings deep connections in the theater community, theater management experience in producing, fundraising, marketing and communications and a deep compassion for those in our community who are suffering from illness, injury or emergency circumstances. We look forward to working with Chris to expand the capabilities and reach of Season of Concern.”
“After producing an online benefit for Season of Concern during the pandemic shutdown, I am overjoyed to be joining Season of Concern as the new Managing Director, and I’m honored to be entrusted to the next phase of the organization’s history. I am grateful to Michael Ryczek for taking such great care of the organization and for giving me big shoes to fill!,” comments Christopher Pazdernik. “I look forward to reaching out and building relationships with theaters of all sizes across our great city and deepening the impact SOC has on theater-makers from all generations.”
Christopher Pazdernik (any) is a Jeff Award winning director and producer who has been active in Chicago theatre since 2007. Described as having “a near encyclopedic knowledge of musicals,” they were recently named to NewCity Stage’s Players 2024: The Fifty People Who Really Perform for Chicago. In addition to their creative pursuits, Christopher has held staff positions at Chicago Shakespeare Theater, Porchlight Music Theatre, Refuge Theatre Project, and most recently, Producing Director at Theo Ubique Cabaret Theater. An openly HIV+ artist, Christopher is also active in AIDS advocacy work, producing the annual benefit concert ‘Belting for Life,’ leading a team at AIDS Run/Walk Chicago, and volunteering on committees with both AIDS Foundation Chicago and Howard Brown Health. He is thrilled to continue his support of Chicagoland theater workers at Season of Concern.