Lighthouse Festival has named David Leyshon as its new Artistic Director following a national search.
Leyshon officially took over the role on August 4 after serving as Interim Artistic Producer since the fall of 2025.
During that time, he helped guide Lighthouse through its current summer season and contributed to the success of the 2026 community production of Curtains. Leyshon also directed the world premiere of Secret Service, which the festival says has quickly become an audience favourite.
He is already looking ahead, working on Lighthouse Festival’s 2027 playbill, which is expected to be announced soon.
Leyshon said he is excited to build on Lighthouse’s history of bringing Canadian stories, artists and audiences together.
Board Chair Maryan Gemus said Leyshon’s creativity, collaborative approach and commitment to Lighthouse stood out during his time in the interim role.
Leyshon was selected by the festival’s Artistic Director Search Committee after a national search, with the recommendation unanimously approved by the Board of Directors.
Executive Director Nicole Campbell said Leyshon has already shown strong artistic leadership and an understanding of the communities Lighthouse serves.
The festival says the appointment begins a new chapter as it continues producing Canadian theatre for audiences across Southwestern Ontario and the Niagara Region.
Written by Jeremy Hall
