A message from A.B.L.E.’s Founder and Executive Artistic Director, Katie Yohe
Hello ABLE community,
Anniversaries are a time to reflect and look back. As we approach A.B.L.E.’s 10th anniversary, I have done a lot of soul-searching and so I am writing today to share that I have decided to step down as Executive Artistic Director at the end of this season. My last day will be June 30th. Leading this organization has been the central focus of my life for so many years. I would like more time with my family and friends, to focus on my health, and to make room for the work that drew me here in the first place – writing, directing, and teaching.
This is a decision that comes with tremendous grief but also with tremendous pride at all that we have accomplished together. When I first walked in the door at GiGi’s Playhouse 16 years ago, I truly had no idea where this road would lead. This time has been filled with countless meaningful moments (Lawrence and I going from our courthouse wedding to tech rehearsal for Twelfth Night), big joy (actors cheering for each other as they saw themselves on the big screen at the premieres of projects like The Spy Who Knew Me and Into the Underworld), resilience (Zoom dance parties), deep connections, backstage pep talks, and so much love. We established industry-leading living wage commitments for the artists who make our work, pioneered creative leadership opportunities for our Creative Associates and Program Advisory Council, and ensured that everyone knows they belong by prioritizing comprehensive accessibility accommodations at all of our public events. We have always tried to lead by example and be a space where radical accessibility is the norm and not the exception. And I’ve had a front row seat to see how that has led to growth and change for every single one of our ensemble members over the years.
The most special thing about A.B.L.E. is the community we have assembled. When the world is scary, I take heart in knowing there are so many people who live with so much creativity and deep care for others. Theater is a collaborative art form and I am eternally grateful to all of the amazing people who have been a part of this journey – our actors, their families, our incredible staff, dedicated volunteers, Board members, donors, community partners. Thank you for your trust in me, and for all you have taught me over the years.
I know that A.B.L.E. is a space that means so much to so many people. Making spaces to share stories, hear different perspectives, build community, and meaningfully include others is so important, especially with our world the way it is today. I am working with the Board to explore ways A.B.L.E. can adjust and adapt to meet the current moment and address the unprecedented financial strains, program demands, and infrastructure challenges facing the organization. In order to continue, A.B.L.E. will have to look and operate differently. I trust our community will hold us accountable for honoring our values and maintaining our person-centered approach along the way.
I will cherish my time leading this community as one of my greatest privileges. I am looking forward to an amazing spring semester, and making some more memories with all of you as we celebrate A.B.L.E.’s 10th Anniversary.
With deep appreciation,
Katie
A message from A.B.L.E.’s Board of Directors
Hello A.B.L.E. Community,
The Board of Directors would like to thank Katie for her bold, inclusive, and visionary leadership throughout her time at A.B.L.E. Katie’s announcement that she will be moving on to her next chapter after 10 years with A.B.L.E. and 16 years of growing these programs may be difficult for our community, but it is a moment we will move through together. A.B.L.E.’s greatest strength has always been its ability to lift one another up, and we encourage staff, facilitators, teaching artists, and community members to continue doing just that in the months ahead.
The Board met on Jan. 11 to address A.B.LE.’s immediate needs surrounding Katie’s departure and will continue to meet monthly as we navigate this change. One of our first priorities is ensuring leadership continuity. We are currently in the process of identifying an Interim Executive Director and expect to share more information in the coming months. At this time, we anticipate running showcase ensembles in the fall.
In addition, we will collaborate with staff, facilitators, caregivers, and Emeritus Board members to form a Transition Committee. This group will lend perspective and support the transition process, including research, interviews, and gathering community feedback. The committee will be chaired by founding board member Nancy Buchanan. Together, the Board and Transition Committee will provide monthly updates to keep our community informed.
We also want to take a moment to recognize the tremendous impact Katie has had on A.B.L.E.. She has always led with the belief that everyone is able to connect, contribute, and create. Through close collaboration with our actors, teaching artists, and facilitators, Katie brought fresh perspectives to classics such as Cyrano de Bergerac, Romeo & Juliet, and most recently, Frankenstein. She also oversaw the creation of original works including Gems Unseen, O for a Muse, and Reconnect, among many others.
Katie’s steadfast leadership guided A.B.L.E. through COVID shutdowns, periods of financial uncertainty, and major organizational growth. From performances at Chicago Shakespeare to the Museum of Contemporary Art, her commitment to accessibility, equity, and artistic excellence has left an enduring mark on our community. We are confident that the theater community will continue to be inspired by her passion and her vision for a more inclusive arts sector.
As we move into this next chapter, we know that any plan will work best when it’s led by our community. Please watch for information about town halls, community surveys, and other ways you can share your perspectives. To start the conversation, please join us for a Town Hall meeting on Tuesday, February 24 at 6pm on Zoom. Our ensembles can log in for the meeting from the ensemble portal, and we will also share the link in our newsletter. If you don’t receive the newsletter, you can sign up at the bottom of this page.
Thank you,
Rosie Bross-Rice – President
Deb Strama – Treasurer
Luke Shadley – Secretary
