On Monday, Sept. 23, The Utah Shakespeare Festival announced the departure of Donn Jersey at the end of the 2024 season. He is leaving after six and a half years of leadership as the director of development and communications.
During his years of service, Jersey contributed to the organization’s growth, financial stability and community connection. The festival’s annual budget donations grew to record-setting levels, from 18% to 50% in three years with his involvement.
“As a long-time attendee and supporter, I have witnessed firsthand the profound impact Donn Jersey has had on the Utah Shakespeare Festival. His visionary leadership and innovative spirit have elevated the festival to new heights,” said Shelley Berkley, honorary co-chair of the Fred C. Adams Endowment and former congresswoman from Nevada.
Jersey worked with the festival’s “Every Brilliant Thing” touring production, aiming to break down stigmas around teen depression and suicide prevention. The play reached over 50,000 students across Utah through 220 performances between 2019 and 2024.
“How fortunate I feel to have found a home with the Utah Shakespeare Festival in Cedar City,” expressed Jersey. “I will look forward to participating as an audience member to witness the magic of this extraordinary storytelling institution that has captured my family’s hearts.”
Upon leaving the festival, Jersey will offer his expertise to the consulting organization Strategic 3C and the Mission High School – a recovery high school he co-founded while being a publisher for the Greenspun Media Group in Las Vegas. In addition, Jersey plans to publish children’s books in 2025, inspired by adventures with his granddaughter.
“Donn is the most talented businessman we’ve ever had the pleasure of working with,” said Eileen and Allen Anes, longtime festival donors and current members of the Board of Governors. “We will profoundly miss seeing Donn at the festival.”
For more information visit the Utah Shakespeare Festival’s website.
Author: Fanny Felixine
Photos courtesy of the Utah Shakespeare Festival
Editor: Tessa Cheshire
arts@suunews.net
