PORT DOVER, ON | August 5, 2026 – Lighthouse Festival is pleased to announce that David Leyshon has been appointed the organization’s new Artistic Director, effective as of August 4, 2026, after an extensive search process.
Leyshon has served as Interim Artistic Producer since the fall of 2025, bringing tremendous energy, creativity and leadership to the role. His hard work and dedication contributed to the success of Lighthouse Festival’s 2026 community production of Curtains, while his steady artistic leadership has helped guide the organization’s current summer season.
At the same time, Leyshon has been working to shape the Lighthouse Festival 2027 playbill, which will be announced shortly.
“I’m thrilled to officially step into the role of Artistic Director and hit the ground running,” says Leyshon. “Lighthouse has a remarkable history of bringing Canadian stories, artists and audiences together, and I’m excited to build on that legacy as we look toward the future.”
“One of the greatest joys of this work is collaborating with the extraordinary team at Lighthouse,” Leyshon adds. “Their talent, dedication and passion are evident in everything they do, and I feel incredibly fortunate to work alongside them as we create memorable theatre for our communities.”
“We are so pleased to welcome David as Lighthouse Festival’s new Artistic Director,” says Maryan Gemus, Chair of the Lighthouse Festival Board of Directors. “His creativity, collaborative spirit and deep commitment to Lighthouse have been evident throughout his time as Interim Artistic Producer. We are confident that his leadership will help guide the organization into an exciting new chapter.”
Leyshon was selected following a comprehensive search led by the Lighthouse Festival Artistic Director Search Committee.
“Throughout the search process, David distinguished himself through his strong artistic vision, thoughtful leadership and clear understanding of Lighthouse Festival’s mandate and communities,” says Susan Hodkinson, Chair of the Artistic Director Search Committee. “The committee is delighted that he has accepted the position, and we look forward to seeing his vision take shape.”
“David has already demonstrated his ability to lead with enthusiasm, care and a genuine respect for the artists, staff, volunteers and patrons who make Lighthouse so special,” says Nicole Campbell, Executive Director of Lighthouse Festival. “I’m excited to continue working with him as we strengthen the organization and bring exceptional Canadian theatre to Southwestern Ontario and the Niagara Region.”
Leyshon’s appointment marks an exciting new chapter for Lighthouse Festival as the organization continues its commitment to producing and supporting Canadian theatre, developing artists and playwrights, and bringing memorable live performances to audiences across the Niagara Region and throughout Southwestern Ontario.
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About Lighthouse Festival
Lighthouse Festival is a charitable organization devoted to the development and production of new and existing Canadian plays. The organization strives to be artistically excellent, support and encourage local and regional artists, and be a source of enjoyment and pride in local communities while promoting local tourism. Located in two beautiful towns on Lake Erie, our theatres operate on a central policy of hospitality, inclusivity, accessibility, and affordability for all.
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