The incoming artistic director at Prairie Theatre Exchange says he feels a great sense of responsibility coming into his new role.

Thomas Morgan Jones will take over for Robert Metcalfe at PTE in July.

Jones says the company has an incredible history, and praised the work of Metcalfe and the entire team at the theatre.

"You know, it's a great responsibility to keep the theatre healthy and alive and vibrant and relevant, and to continue on the extraordinary work that's already been done there."

Jones is currently working as the artistic director for Theatre New Brunswick. He says he's been a fan of PTE from afar for a very long time.

"My wife actually reminded me, we were living in Toronto a while ago, and she said, 'You remember that time that you came out of the office and said, "Wow, Prairie Theatre Exchange, they're always making such great theatre!"'"

PTE's board of directors unanimously approved of the selection committee's recommendation of Jones.

Jones says he's looking forward to being part of a new community, and he's looking forward to getting to know the theatre and arts ecology in Winnipeg and Manitoba.