Paramount Theatre director resigns

The director of the Paramount Theatre in Aurora has stepped down, leaving an unexpected administrative void as the historic downtown facility prepares for its fall season.

Diana Martinez served as executive director for slightly less than eight years. She confirmed Friday that her last day on the job was Thursday, but refused further comment.

In a written statement, Paramount officials said the board of directors and Martinez did not share the same vision for changes aiming to help the nonprofit organization weather the rough economy.

" ... changes in operations and programming must be undertaken to minimize the impact of the economy on attendance at shows and also to reduce operating costs," officials said in the statement. "In reviewing these changes with Martinez, the board and Martinez came to the conclusion that the direction the board was taking was not consistent with (her) professional goals."

Under her leadership, the Paramount completed a $4.5 million expansion project several years ago that resulted in an improved lobby and box office.

The Paramount also has regularly attracted big-name national acts. B.B. King, Clint Black, Lily Tomlin and Kenny Rogers are among the artists scheduled to perform in the coming season.

Martinez was hired by Dick Hawks, chairman of Paramount's board of directors, who will now take her place on an interim basis. Hawks said the board and staff were not expecting Martinez's departure, but she left the Paramount in good order.

"Next year's season is prepared and ready to go," Hawks said. "She left (the Paramount) in good shape to be run easily by the next person who steps in here."

Both Martinez and another Paramount employee, Matt Jones, stepped down Thursday. Hawks said Jones, who worked in the box office and had performance experience on Broadway, gave his notice several weeks ago.

As the board works to replace Martinez, Hawks said it will look for someone who can help create a theater school at the Paramount as well as a candidate with the vision to help the theater produce its own shows instead of only presenting touring acts.

"Diana has been with us almost eight years and that's a long time in this business," said Hawks. "I'm sure (we) all thank her from the bottom of our hearts for the wonderful job she did."

Tickets for Paramount's new season, which runs through June 2010, go on sale Saturday. For details, visit paramountarts.com.