Lou Spisto directs both the artistic and administrative activities of The Old Globe. During his tenure, Mr. Spisto spearheaded the return of the Shakespeare Repertory Company, revitalized the Globe’s new works program, resulting in ten world premiere plays and eight world premiere musicals, and produced more than 100 productions. Under Mr. Spisto’s leadership, ticket sales and contributions have increased substantially, and the fiscal health of the organization has been strengthened to support the expanded artistic vision. Mr. Spisto has successfully led the Globe’s $75 million Capital Campaign and managed the development of the Conrad Prebys Theatre Center, which includes a new state-of-the-art arena theatre and education center opening, in December 2009. An advocate of arts education, Mr. Spisto created a number of new programs that serve tens of thousands of young San Diegans each year. These programs include a bilingual summer Shakespeare intensive, a major initiative in Southeastern San Diego which includes the development of new works for younger and more diverse audiences, and free student matinees of the Globe’s regular productions. Mr. Spisto holds a Master’s degree from the University of Wisconsin and a Bachelor’s degree from the University of Notre Dame. He has served as chief executive for the Pacific Symphony, Detroit Symphony and American Ballet Theatre.
