October 31, 2017 - 9:54 AM
Toronto's Soulpepper Theatre Company has revealed it severed ties with longtime guest artist Laszlo Marton after allegations of sexual harassment surfaced against him in late 2015.
In a newly released statement, the theatre company says a member of its community went to Soulpepper with the allegations.
"Following a formal investigation, Soulpepper determined that Mr. Marton had engaged in sexual harassment and that his relationship with the company had to be immediately and permanently terminated," reads the statement.
"Following receipt of this first complaint, Soulpepper became aware of a second complainant who wished to remain completely anonymous and therefore did not want to proceed with an investigation.
"Marton's behaviour was both unacceptable in human terms and in violation of Soulpepper's past and present policies and codes of conduct."
Soulpepper said the details of the allegations have remained confidential to protect the identities of the complainants.
The theatre company said it has anti-harassment policies and procedures in place. But "out of an abundance of caution," it has engaged a third party expert to conduct a review of those policies and procedures to ensure they are using best practices.
On Monday, artistic director Albert Schultz and executive director Leslie Lester also led a company meeting with staff and artists to reinforce those protocols and standards.
Marton is currently facing accusations of sexual harassment in his native Hungary.
"We recognize that this news, and the news coming out of Hungary will be deeply troubling to many, and may cause distress to some," said Soulpepper.
"To all those affected, we extend our support, and want to reaffirm that Soulpepper is dedicated to creating a safe place of belonging for artists, audiences, and aspirants."
News from © The Canadian Press, 2017