Founding artistic director of Long Beach’s ICT stepping down after 25 years

This article was originally on a blog post platform and may be missing photos, graphics or links. See About archive blog posts.

The International Center Theatre in Long Beach said Friday that its founding artistic director, Shashin Desai, is stepping down after 25 years at the helm. Taking over as artistic leader of the company will be his wife, caryn desai, who has served as general manager since 1990 (and who spells her name in all lower-case letters).

Shashin Desai is scheduled to step down March 15. In a statement to the company’s board of directors, he said an ‘organization needs to be about more than the vision of just one individual. I am stepping aside so that ICT has the chance to grow and become stronger under a new generation of leadership.’

The company, among the largest theater organizations in Long Beach, produces new plays and musicals as well as revivals of classic works at its main venue at the Long Beach Performing Arts Center. During his tenure at ICT, which began in 1985, Desai has served as director of numerous productions.

ICT began its operations in a 99-seat, black-box theater on the campus of Long Beach City College. The company said it completed its 25th anniversary season last year with a balanced budget.

-- David Ng

RELATED

Theater review: ‘When Garbo Talks!’ at International City Theatre

Theater review: ‘The Clean House’ at International City Theatre

Theater review: ‘How the Other Half Loves’ at International City Theatre

Theater review: ‘The Threepenny Opera’ at International City Theatre

Theater review: ‘Is He Dead?’ at International City Theatre