The Toronto Alliance for the Performing Arts (TAPA) is thrilled to announce Annemieke Wade as its new Executive Director, starting January 6, 2025. Representing 119 professional theatre, dance, and opera companies across the city, TAPA supports the performing arts community through advocacy, professional development, and celebrated events like the Dora Mavor Moore Awards and hipTIX, a discount ticketing program reaching over 30,000 youth.
Ms. Wade’s distinguished background includes serving as Executive Director at Roseneath Theatre and Theatre Direct, as well as Company Manager at Tarragon Theatre. She has also been a dedicated member of the TAPA Board for over six years, including four as Board Secretary. Her appointment is seen as a positive step forward for TAPA by colleagues, board members, and the outgoing Executive Director, Jacoba Knaapen.
Jacoba Knaapen expressed her enthusiasm for Ms. Wade’s future at TAPA, noting, “Annemieke’s dedication to the arts and her extensive experience make her a good match for TAPA. She will be an invaluable addition to the team and a strong advocate for our community.”
Michael Sinclair, TAPA Board President and Chair of the hiring committee, spoke to Ms. Wade’s wealth of experience and unique understanding of TAPA’s values: “As Chair of the hiring committee, I am delighted with the appointment of Annemieke as the new Executive Director. With over 15 years of experience in the performing arts sector, she brings a deep knowledge and insight to the position along with a unique understanding of TAPA, having served on the TAPA Board for over six years, including four as Board Secretary. In her new role, she steps into a legacy shaped by outgoing Executive Director Jacoba Knaapen, whose leadership has earned TAPA a stellar reputation not only in this city but nationwide. The Board and committee are confident that Annemieke will build on this legacy and has our full support.”
Chris Goddard, President of the Performing Arts Information Services (PAIS) Board, also welcomed Ms. Wade and emphasized the importance of her appointment at this crucial time: “We are thrilled to welcome Annemieke at this pivotal time for our community. Her proven track record in the arts sector and her commitment to the TAPA mission will guide us forward, strengthening the critical role that TAPA plays in advocating for vibrant theatre, dance, and opera communities in Toronto.”
Ms. Wade shared her excitement, reflecting on the support of her family and community, and the influential leaders who came before her. “I am honored to step into this role, knowing that I am part of a legacy built by incredible advocates for Toronto’s performing arts.”
About Annemieke Wade
Annemieke Wade brings over 15 years of experience in the performing arts sector to her new role as Executive Director of TAPA. Previously, she served as Executive Director at Roseneath Theatre and Theatre Direct, where she championed access to the arts for diverse audiences and led numerous initiatives to foster inclusivity and new perspectives on stage. Ms. Wade’s dedication to arts advocacy is widely respected in the Toronto arts community. Her years as Company Manager at Tarragon Theatre and her long-standing commitment to TAPA, including six years on its Board (four as Board Secretary), have positioned her as a knowledgeable and empathetic leader. She steps into the role with a unique insight into TAPA’s values and an unwavering commitment to enriching Toronto’s vibrant cultural landscape.
A New Chapter for TAPA
TAPA has championed Toronto’s performing arts sector for over three decades, providing critical support through advocacy, professional development programs, and community-building initiatives. Signature programs include hipTIX, a discount ticketing program for youth, and the prestigious Dora Mavor Moore Awards, Canada’s longest-running theatre, dance, and opera awards that celebrate excellence on Toronto’s stages. With Ms. Wade’s leadership, TAPA is poised to enter an inspiring new chapter, advancing opportunities that celebrate and expand the reach of Toronto’s diverse and thriving arts scene.