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Another high-level exit at BCPA: JongHun Kim is out as artistic director

JongHun Kim has left his role as artistic director for the Bloomington Center for the Performing Arts.

WGLT learned of the departure earlier this week. Katherine Murphy, spokesperson for the City of Bloomington, confirmed that Kim’s last day on the job was Feb. 22.

The city does not comment on personnel matters and no further details were available.

The BCPA suffered a notable setback in November 2021 when the highly anticipated 25th anniversary production of the musical "Rent" was cancelled. Kim told WGLT previously that of all the shows scheduled for the season, he was most looking forward to "Rent."

But according to a BCPA press release, the show was scuttled due to technical difficulties.

“We are heartbroken to have had to cancel this iconic show. We know how much this show means to so many people, and we hope that ticket-buyers can understand we had no other option,” Kim said in the release.

Kim’s departure adds to a growing list of high-level vacancies at the BCPA director James Mack and production manager Ryan High both left their positions on Jan. 5. Murphy declined to provide details surrounding Mack’s departure. Mack had previously pleaded guilty to charges of domestic battery. Murphy confirmed that High resigned the day of Mack's departure.

All three positions remain unfilled. Eric Veal, director of Parks, Recreation, Arts and Culture for the city, said the department is working on future plans for management positions. Veal said he hopes to be able to provide more information in the next few weeks.

But the lingering vacancies could point to a potential restructuring of management for the BCPA. In an interview with WGLT on March 1, City Manager Tim Gleason indicated the city was considering merging management of the BCPA with the Grossinger Motors Arena, which also is downtown. Gleason said at the time that the city was drafting a job description for a general manager who would oversee both venues.

Sarah Nardi is a WGLT reporter. She previously worked for the Chicago Reader covering Arts & Culture.
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