Bainbridge Performing Arts has brought on Dominique Cantwell as the organization’s new managing director this month. The board conducted an extensive search for the right candidate.

“We interviewed several intriguing candidates, but Dominique emerged as the clear choice. … She’s the perfect fit for us at this crucial time,” said Board President Omie Kerr.

Cantwell combines extensive board development training, more than 10 years of experience in political and nonprofit fundraising, and 14 years of performing in school and community theaters.

For her part, Cantwell is thrilled to be at BPA and credits the dynamic and talented artistic team as a daily source of inspiration, according to a press release.

Immersing herself in BPA’s history, partnerships, and artistic base, she has begun to explore the potential of the organization’s mission to educate, entertain, and encourage youth and adults in the performing arts of theatre, music, and dance.

“Even in the slow economy we’re selling out most performances; community engagement is as strong as it’s ever been, and our Theatre School continues to grow and thrive. While we’re certainly experiencing the effects of deep cuts in arts funding, we’re also feeling a groundswell of public support from those who realize that performing arts continue to be an investment in the island’s future,” she said.