Arlington Heights' Metropolis Selects Ragan As New Artistic Director

ARLINGTON HEIGHTS, IL — Following a nationwide search, the Metropolis Performing Arts Centre has a new artistic director. Brendan Ragan, who is the founding co-artistic director of Florida-based Urbanite Theatre, will begin April 24.

Robbie Simpson, who has served as interim director since directing "Cabaret" last September, will collaborate in the transition before his return to New York City, according to Metropolis.

"Blending my experience with challenging new work with the productions that delight Arlington Heights will be a great thrill for audiences and artists alike. We are going to tell wonderful stories with the highest degree of professionalism," Ragan said. "Metropolis has been making a tremendous impact in Arlington Heights for over 20 years."

RELATED: Metropolis Announces 2022-2023 Season In Arlington Heights

MPAC houses 329 seats and hosts hundreds of produced and presented performances each year, including a Main Stage subscription series and various concerts, comedies, and cabarets, according to its website. The theater is located at the intersection of Campbell Street and Vail Avenue (111 West Campbell St.).

Upcoming shows include "Ragtime," showing May 4 through June 4, and "Xanadu," showing July 13 through Aug. 13.