Rick Wharton, Director of Festival Hall is stepping down after 13 years of service due to ongoing health concerns. Wharton was instrumental in shaping the performing arts scene in Pembroke and the Ottawa Valley, transforming Festival Hall into a modern cultural hub.
During his time as Director, Wharton expanded the theatre’s programming and brought in nationally recognized performers like Randy Bachman, Johnny Reid, Dean Brody, Brett Kissel, and more. His efforts helped elevate Festival Hall as a major venue for both local and national talent.
Murray Rutz, Chair of the Festival Hall Consortium, acknowledged Wharton’s contributions: “Rick’s passion for Festival Hall is evident. He helped grow the theatre into a vibrant cultural center in the Ottawa Valley. We are grateful for his contributions and wish him well as he focuses on his health.”
Wharton expressed his gratitude to the community: “It’s with a heavy heart that I step down, but it’s time to focus on my health. I’m proud of what we’ve built here and thankful to the community for its incredible support.”
His wife, Lorelei Wharton, will take on the role of Interim Director until December 31st. The Festival Hall Consortium will begin the search for a permanent replacement as they aim to build on the strong foundation that Wharton established.
Festival Hall will remain open, and upcoming events can be found at festhall.ca.
(Written by: Emma Butler)