Magik Theatre San Antonio Management Changes

MAGIK THEATRE ANNOUNCES NEW LEADERSHIP STRUCTURE

The venerable San Antonio children’s theatre elevates two longtime leaders and welcomes Artistic Director Collin J. Pittman

(San Antonio, TX) – March 31, 2026  San Antonio's Magik Theatre is entering a new chapter of leadership as it prepares to reopen its renovated facility this June. This month, the theatre appointed Melissa Zarb-Cousin as Chief Executive Officer and promoted Shannon Bishop to Vice President of Strategy and Operations — marking the first time in the organization's history that both its top executive and operations roles are held by women. The theatre has also named Collin J. Pittmann as its new Artistic Director, following an extensive search that drew more than 55 applicants from around the nation.

“This new structure allows us to be more nimble and react in real time,” said Zarb-Cousin. “We have a clear road map, strong foundation partners, and the exact right team in place. We feel solidly positioned for the next 30 years."

INSPIRING LEADERS RECOGNIZED

The new leadership takes effect as Magik readies its iconic Beethoven Hall home to once again welcome the public following a major renovation supported by the 2022 City of San Antonio bond program. The anticipated June reopening symbolizes a fresh start after the necessary intermission in mainstage operations and the unintended consequences of nearby city-led construction, moments met admirably by Zarb-Cousin and Bishop in their previous roles.

“This past year at Magik Theatre has been one of challenges, with the financial strain of road construction on South Alamo taking a real toll,” said Magik Board President Alonzo Guzmán. “Mel and Shannon have done a fantastic job of weathering that storm and building a strong foundation for growth. Their new positions are a testament to their leadership and to the Board’s confidence in them to build on the positive momentum they’ve achieved.”

Zarb-Cousin joined Magik three years ago as Managing Director, helping the organization find its footing after COVID-19’s catastrophic impact on the performing arts. Extended construction along South Alamo Street created operational and financial strain largely outside the organization’s control, yet under Zarb-Cousin’s stewardship Magik cemented its value in the San Antonio arts community, oversaw three record-breaking annual galas, and led the development of a three-year strategic plan to redefine Magik’s mission, vision and values.

“I’m incredibly excited about the future of Magik Theatre,” said Pamela Bramble, previous Board Chair for Magik and an active board member since 2020. “Mel has navigated construction, facility updates and the development of a strategic plan that will enable this theatre to serve the children of San Antonio and South Texas for years to come. She has earned her title as CEO.”

Bishop, a Texas native currently pursuing a master’s degree in nonprofit management, has spent eight years at Magik in roles spanning theatre services, general management and financial operations. She built much of the theatre’s current budgeting and financial reporting infrastructure and has been a central driver of its long-range planning work.

“Shannon Bishop has been an integral part of this theatre for a decade,” said Bramble. “Her passion and willingness to do whatever it takes to continue our mission are unmatched.”

In her new role, Bishop will oversee strategy, HR, marketing, sales and financial operations. “Strong operations are not separate from mission — they are one of the ways an organization lives out its values,” Bishop said. “I’m honored to help build on the foundation we’ve created and keep moving Magik forward with care and intention.”

NEW ARTISTIC DIRECTOR BRINGS FRESH IDEAS, IDEAL SKILLSET

Pittmann will start as Artistic Director in April. Previously, he spent eight years at Washington’s Spokane Valley Summer Theatre in arts leadership and production roles, most recently as Artistic Associate and Director of Education. During his tenure there, the company expanded youth programming, increased scholarship awards and developed a showcase pathway for high school and college students pursuing professional careers in the performing arts. His productions of Joseph & the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat and Buddy: The Buddy Holly Story became the highest-selling shows in the company’s history. He holds a B.A. from Texas Christian University and an M.F.A. in Theatre Directing from East 15 Acting School at the University of Essex, the U.K.’s top-ranked drama school.

“Theatre for Young Audiences programming is vital to a city’s success. It serves our youth — and therefore the community’s future. In a world where young people are too often glued to devices, I view the magical, in-person storytelling  and communal experience of live theatre as especially critical,” Pittmann said.

"Collin's artistic vision for Magik is incredibly inspiring,” said Zarb-Cousin. “He brings not only exceptional directing experience but a proven record in educational programming, and that combination is exactly what Magik needs."

CELEBRATING A MAGIKAL TRANSFORMATION

What better way to celebrate the growth and bright future ahead for Magik than a beloved children’s tale about a caterpillar turning into a beautiful butterfly? On June 6, The Very Hungry Caterpillar opens on Magik’s renovated mainstage, and caps off the 2025-26 production season. Opening night will feature a ribbon-cutting for the new and improved space, which has several upgrades to make historic Beethoven Hall more comfortable and accessible for audiences. The pre-show party in Hemisfair Park will provide fluttery fun with themed activities, music and refreshments. This family-friendly affair will welcome guests back to the Magik home they know and love, and set the stage for the organization’s exciting next act, as directed by Zarb-Cousin, Bishop and Pittmann.

MAGIK THEATRE

A professional theatre for young audiences established in 1994, Magik Theatre’s mission is to create theatrical experiences that ignite imagination, spark curiosity, inspire empathy, and foster a lifetime love of learning in young people. For more information, visit magiktheatre.org, or Facebook, Instagram and Twitter @TheMagikTheatre.