Sara Pearson.
The move comes one year since the Mountain Play Association, the nonprofit organization that produces live theater productions atop Mount Tam, reorganized its top brass, moving artistic producer Eileen Grady into a new executive director/artistic producer role. Pearson then became the organization’s director of leadership and development with a focus on fund development, board development, and long-term strategy.
“Starting this winter, (Pearson) will continue her affiliation with the Mountain Play working as a fundraising consultant through the 2020 season,” the organization said in a statement. She’ll also return to her previous work as a fundraising consultant to non-profits. Past clients include Marin Conservation League, Conservation Corps North Bay, and Matrix Parent Network.
Pearson began her association with Mountain Play as a member of the board of directors from 2001 to 2006. In 2007, she was selected to lead the organization upon the retirement of outgoing Executive Director Kathy King. Pearson served as executive director for 12 years during which the organization celebrated its centennial year, and later began expanding its artistic programming to “off-mountain” productions.
“I am proud of our accomplishments over the last “baker’s dozen” years and I’m very confident the organization is in good shape and in good hands,” Pearson says. “It’s been a huge honor to work with such a dedicated, talented and passionate bunch of people both on the stage and behind the scenes. Mountain Play is a unique cultural tradition – I’ll be a supporter for life!”
Pearson says her proudest accomplishments include the 2013 publication of a colorful history book, Marin’s Mountain Play, 100 Years of Theatre on Mount Tamalpais, written by Elisabeth Ptak. The Mountain Play community will acknowledge Pearson at the organization’s annual gala to be held on November 2 at the Osher Marin Jewish Community Center. She will receive the Tamalpa Award, which honors individuals who have had a significant impact on the development and evolution of Mountain Play. Pearson will be the 11th honoree in a tradition that began in 2009 honoring former Executive Producer Marilyn M. Smith.
“Since 2008, it has been my pleasure to serve as Sara’s board member, employee, colleague, and sidekick,” Grady says. “Sara leaves the organization with a legacy rich in passion, growth, and vision. Both this executive director and the Mountain Play are better for Sara’s partnership, dedication, and leadership.”
The Mountain Play’s 2020 production is Hello Dolly!
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