Lyric Theater names new managing director

The Lyric Theater of Wooster welcomes Jeremy Thomas as the managing director to lead the renovation and reopening of the downtown Wooster theater. Thomas takes the reins of the nonprofit theater as it works to launch renovations and prepare for opening as an independent cinema and live event space.

Thomas is a veteran theater manager with more than 25 years of experience in every aspect of cinema operations with Cinemark, including a stint at the Movies 10 in Wooster. Among other things, he oversaw the renovation and reopening of the Movie Bistro in North Canton. He is a lifelong lover of the movies, a supporter of the arts, a Cleveland sports fan and a resident of Canton, where he and his wife of 22 years are raising four daughters.

“We think Jeremy is the perfect match for the Lyric,” said Laura Neill, co-chair of the search committee. “He knows theaters inside and out, and he’s not afraid to get his hands dirty.”

Neill helped lead a search that attracted more than 50 experienced candidates from across the country.

“We are thrilled to bring Jeremy into the Lyric family,” said Greg Shaya, president of the board and co-chair of the search committee. “He is familiar with our community, and he knows the power of great movies and distinctive events. He will help make the Lyric a destination for film and music, conversation, and fun.”

In 2021, with the help of a small group of donors, the organization bought the old Lyric Twin (or Big Picture) at 116 E. South St. Soon after, the nonprofit launched a $2.75 million capital campaign titled “Let’s Get Together at the Lyric!”

With the help of a Cultural Facilities Grant from the State of Ohio and the support of numerous foundations, corporations and individual donors, the group has reached 80% of the fundraising goal.

“Our Wooster community will be so excited to have a new entertainment venue in our downtown,” Mayor Bob Breneman said. “It is a perfect complement to the area restaurants, shops and housing units that have been expanding in our city center. The Lyric Theater will also mark the gateway to the Arts District that we are working to establish with our new comprehensive plan on the southern side of our downtown.”

Thomas succeeds Carolyn Robinson, former executive director, who will continue working alongside Thomas for a period to support his transition.

“It’s been a dream of mine to lead an independent theater,” Thomas said. “We will have the flexibility to offer not only mainstream movies, but independent films, documentaries, live music and special events that can be tailored to our community. It is a privilege to have this opportunity, and I am excited to bring a unique experience to downtown Wooster.”

Currently, the board is working to finalize fundraising for the renovation and reopening of the theater. The Lyric Theater of Wooster will be an entertainment venue and economic development catalyst, not just for downtown Wooster, but also for the entire Wayne County community and surrounding region.

More information can be found at www.lyricwooster.org.