The Park Theatre Board of Trustees has announced that Steve Jackson, CEO and managing director of The Park Theatre, will retire Dec. 31, 2026, after more than 10 years of leadership with the organization.
Jackson first became involved with The Park Theatre in 2013, providing pro bono marketing support during efforts to revive the historic downtown theater. In February 2016, the board appointed him CEO and managing director, entrusting him with guiding the project through its final development stages and eventual opening as a state-of-the-art performing arts center.
Under Jackson’s leadership, The Park Theatre has become a cultural hub for the Monadnock region, presenting a wide range of live performances, films and community events. He helped bring nationally recognized artists, including Garrison Keillor and Judy Collins, to Jaffrey, while also securing premieres of major Hollywood films.
Jackson expanded the theater’s role as a regional arts center through partnerships with organizations including Ashuelot Concerts, the Peterborough Folk Music Society, Electric Earth Concerts and Project Shakespeare. He also launched several signature events, including Shamrock Fest and Dickens Fest, and established the Filmmakers Series, which has attracted filmmakers to Jaffrey for screenings and discussions of their work.
“Serving The Park Theatre and this community has been one of the greatest honors of my life,” Jackson said in a statement. “What began as a volunteer effort grew into a shared vision that has brought people together through the arts. I am deeply proud of what we have built and excited to see how the theatre continues to grow in the years ahead.”
Board President Nancy Belletete said Jackson’s impact on the organization and community has been significant.
“Steve’s leadership has been extraordinary, and his impact on The Park Theatre and the broader community cannot be overstated,” Belletete said. “We are grateful for his dedication and vision, and we are committed to conducting a thoughtful and thorough search to find the next leader who will build on this strong foundation.”
Located at 19 Main St. in downtown Jaffrey, The Park Theatre has become one of the region’s premier performing arts venues since reopening, offering concerts, theater productions, films, educational programming and community events.
