The move comes as two of the magazine's staff leave the company - David Barbour, long-time editorial director for the magazines and publisher, Jackie Tien. "Jackie Tien and David Barbour should be proud of what they helped build here over such a long period of time," says Primedia Business senior vice-president Pete May, "and of their numerous contributions to the entertainment lighting industry. We thank them for all they have done. David Johnson will build on that foundation to bring growth and dynamism back to these magazines."
Johnson joined Primedia's Lighting Dimensions and Entertainment Design (then known as Theatre Crafts International) in 1993 as business editor. He served as managing editor for ETEC, the first online entertainment technology resource, from 1994 to 1996, when he was named editor of Theatre Crafts International. He oversaw the name change of the magazine to Entertainment Design, helped grow the annual EDDY Awards to an important industry event, and spearheaded last year's successful Broadway Sound Master Classes.
"We are committed to our lighting and staging segment: Lighting Dimensions and Entertainment Design, along with the Entertainment Technology Show/LDI, Broadway Lighting and Sound Master Classes, and our websites and e-newsletters," said MacArthur. "We will support Johnson as he and his team aggressively build the franchise."
Primedia has announced a search for an editor-in-chief for Lighting Dimensions, who will report to Johnson. The company also announced plans to hire two additional editors as part of the plan to serve readers and buyers in the lighting, sound, projection, and staging community.
Ellen Lampert-Greaux, who has worked on both magazines for over 20 years and has served as conference director of ETS-LDI since its inception 16 years ago, continues as consulting editor. Aimee Eckert will serve as the East Coast rep for both magazines, while Holly O'Hair will handle the West Coast. David Johnson will remain as editor of Entertainment Design.
(Lee Baldock)
