PCYC, the North Minneapolis community-based nonprofit, is pleased to announce the appointment of Maija Garcia as the new Director of the Capri. Garcia will lead the Capri’s creative vision and oversee its artistic and community programming beginning July 1.
Garcia brings a wide range of experience to her position at the Capri including, most recently, her work as Director of Education and Professional Training at the Guthrie Theater. In that role she curated advanced training and professional development for actors and theater makers, built digital curriculum for educators, and contributed to artistic programming on the main stage and in the Dowling Studio.
“I am thrilled to begin a new chapter of innovation at the Capri, expanding on programs and partnerships that honor the rich history and legacy of this North Minneapolis gem,” said Garcia.
“I believe the Capri is uniquely positioned to harness the power of arts to activate a rising generation of storytellers, game changers and world builders.”
As a director, Garcia has helmed a range of productions, from original musicals (including I Am Betty at the History Theater) to bilingual classics, operas and concerts in the U.S. and Caribbean, Europe and Africa. She has collaborated with luminaries such as Spike Lee, Bill T. Jones, John Leguizamo and Meshell Ndegeocello among many others. Throughout her career Garcia has established a broad international network, and developed strong connections in the Twin Cities over the last seven years.
“We’re very excited to welcome Maija Garcia as the next Director of the Capri,” said Melissa Denton, Executive Director of PCYC. “Her bold vision, artistic leadership, and strength as a seasoned community builder is central to our strategic priorities for the Capri’s continued growth and success.”
Garcia studied International Relations at San Francisco State University and earned a degree in Sustainable Development from the California Institute of Integral Studies. She’s currently an Advisory Board member of the Melrose Center for Principled Leadership at the University of St. Thomas, and serves on the Downtown Action Council for the City of Minneapolis.
PCYC is a community-based nonprofit with a rich, 71-year history of delivering exceptional education, arts, and youth programming to Minneapolis’ Northside community and beyond via PYC Arts & Technology High School, the Capri Best Buy Teen Tech Center, PCYC’s Summer Freedom School, and the Capri. More: pcyc-mpls.org.
The Capri is a stunning destination venue, job creator, educational and cultural hub that contributes mightily to the economic vitality of North Minneapolis. In 2027, the Capri will proudly celebrate its 100th anniversary. More: thecapri.org.