MEDIA THEATRE ARTISTIC DIRECTOR JESSE CLINE RECEIVES ICON AWARD FROM MEDIA ARTS COUNCIL

The Media Theatre's Artistic Director Jesse Cline received the 2015 ICON Award from Media Arts Council (MAC), a non-profit organization based in Media borough which seeks to actively support local artists and integrate a wide range of arts into the life of the entire local and regional community. 

Patrick Ward, Media Theatre Executive Director; Mayor Bob McMahon; Artistic Director Jesse Cline; and MAC's Executive Director Judy Fowler

In introducing the eveing at MAC's annual award presentation Friday night April 24, the Arts Council's Executive Director Judy Fowler said, "Jesse Cline is truly an artist, having been at the Artistic Director of The Media Theatre since 1994 and continuing its transition as a non-profit in the 2000's. We represent artists, and he is responsible for many years of bringing professional music theatre and education to the community."

She continued, "He and his partner Patrick Ward, the Executive Director of the theatre, work tirelessly to continue that goal and we are proud to present the 2015 ICON Award to Mr. Jesse Cline."

Jesse Cline with Judy Fowler at the ICON Awards presentation

Media borough Mayor Bob McMahon presented the award to Cline, saying "When Jesse started his mission at the theatre more than two decades ago, Media was a completely different place. Through the work of the theatre and it being a destination for thousands of visitors per year, the borough has seen a great transition since the 1990's."

Mayor Bob McMahon with Media Theatre Executive Director Patrick Ward

Cline accepted the honor by saying, "This is a humbling experience. All of us must continue to work together to do what is best for the borough and the region. I would also like to acknowledge your other honoree tonight, Mike Berman, who is your volunteer of the year recipient. Without volunteers, organizations like The Media Theatre and Media Arts Council simply would not be able to thrive."

He then stated, "I am appreciative of this wonderful honor and also wish to publicly thank the Mayor, Media Business Authority, and the Borough Council for being so supportive of what it is we do."

Media Business Authority's Bryan Messick and Zubair Khan

Cline has staged almost 100 productions at The Media Theatre since 1994, and as the Artistic Director since its revised status as a non-profit in the 2000's, has led the theatre to award status throughout the region with honors from Broadway World, Philadelphia Inquirer, Main Line Today Magazine, New York Daily News, Delaware County Council, Pennsylvania Senate, and the US Congress. He has brought Tony winning actors and nominees to The Media Theatre stage including Christine Andreas, Phillip Boykin, Betty Buckley, Ann Crumb, Andy Karl, and Andrea McArdle who is currently starring in "Hello Dolly" through May 24. Emmy winner Wanda Sykes also appeared on Media's stage in "Annie" in 2011. He holds a BFA in theatre from Virginia Commonwealth University and did graduate work at Bowling Green University. Having studied with the legendary acting teacher Sanford Meisner, Cline bases all of the theatre's work and educational opportunities on the Meisner Technique.

A wall in the Media Arts Council show room, which focuses on the work of local artists. The show room is open to the public.

Due to Cline's vision, The Media Theatre has a new second space opening April 26. The new School and Dance Studio at 28 West State Street will provide a continuing platform for youth and adults who have a passion for music theatre with Tap and Ballet classes, an expanded Acting Class curriculum, and Songwriting courses. 

For more information about The Media Theatre visit mediatheatre.org or call 610-891-0100. For information about Media Arts Council, visit www.MediaArtsCouncil.org