After close four decades of set design, costuming and production, the Dallas Children’s Theater has announced that Associate Artistic Director Artie Olaisen will retire at the end of the season, according to a release.
Olaisen joined the theater a few years after its founding in 1984. He is credited for masterminding the Cabaret Gala in 1993, which has gone on to become one of the DCT’s most successful fundraisers.
“From his brilliant Cabaret Gala to his deeply imaginative directing and enduring friendship, Artie has been my guiding light year after year,” said DCT founder Robyn Flatt in a release. “He is the epitome of the Renaissance Artist whose talents and impeccable taste never ceases to inspire. Artie, thanks for the miracles you’ve made real for DCT and me.”
Known for his enthusiasm for Halloween productions like Dracula and Frankenstein, the release praised Olaisen for his cinematic style, which it noted has “always been a hallmark of his production vision.”
“Artie will always be a hero to us at DCT,” said Executive Director Samantha Turner in the release. “His ability to translate his creative vision to the stage, bringing the biggest and most magical worlds to life in a way that feels intimate and accessible to families, and his talent for creating a welcoming space for artists, young people, and community members will long be remembered.”
Olaisen’s last show will be James and the Giant Peach at the conclusion of the 2024-25 season.
