A major Dallas-area theater company has executed an abrupt change in personnel. WaterTower Theatre in Addison fired its associate producer, Elizabeth Kensek, who had been with the institution for five years, citing "efficiency" as the reason:

"As WaterTower Theatre enters its 30th season, modifications at the Addison Theatre Centre, directed by the Town’s leadership, have led us to consolidate roles and departments for greater efficiency. This unfortunately resulted in some layoffs and structural shifts, including the departure of Associate Producer Elizabeth Kensek. We are truly grateful for their dedicated service to this theatre company."

Possibly adding insult to injury, WTT announced the termination on social media, prompting a sharp reaction from the Dallas-Fort Worth theater community. Commentors on the theatre's Facebook post called Kensek "the backbone of WaterTower Theatre" and noted her supportive presence at shows and showcases all across DFW.

Stage West artistic director Dana Schultes posted: "If I had any openings on my staff, she'd be hired IMMEDIATELY. Whoever does snap her up will be very, very lucky. She's outstanding. There are very few people I've met with her expertise, drive, long list of talents, kindness, empathy, non-profit understanding, union-knowledge, theatre-background, thorough, detail-oriented leadership."

The layoff appears to have been sudden.

Kensek posted a response on August 29 on her personal Facebook page stating that she was overwhelmed by the outpouring of support she had received since the announcement was made.

"It has been an honor to serve as the Associate Producer of WaterTower Theatre for the last 5 years. I am so overwhelmed by the outpouring of texts and phone calls from not just artists, but also fellow theatre makers and patrons. I am sad to have to close this chapter. I probably would have happily grown old in that office and let someone scatter my ashes in the courtyard after I was gone if I’m being honest- but the universe has other plans for me. It is time to find my next adventure. If the fates allow, I hope that will include continuing to serve the professional theatre community here in DFW."

She shared a sweet anecdote that she said was perhaps a sign.

"Following the last performance of Mary Poppins, the final show of what would be my final season at WTT, my necklace broke and came off in my hand during strike [the deconstruction and removal of the set]. I guess it was a sign. To paraphrase Mary, “I stayed until the chain broke”… 💜 Thank you all- and please keep supporting live professional theatre here in North Texas. I’ll be in the audience, cheering you on."

Requests for comment from Kensek and WaterTower Theatre and its artistic director, Shane Peterman, went unreturned, but in its announcement the theater stated, "We remain committed to partnering with the Town of Addison to continue providing the exceptional theatrical entertainment our patrons have loved for decades. We appreciate your ongoing support and are optimistic about our plans and the potential our future holds together!"

WaterTower's 29th season begins with The Search for Signs of Intelligent Life in the Universe, running November 6-17, 2024.