DreamWorks gets theater chief

Bill Damaschke, a senior executive with DreamWorks Animation SKG Inc., has been named its president of live theatrical, a newly created position. Damaschke will oversee the company’s live theatrical productions, beginning with “Shrek the Musical,” projected to open on Broadway in 2008. Damaschke and colleague John Batter have also been made co-presidents of production for feature animation.

“Having worked closely with both Bill and John for many years, I cannot think of a better pair to help lead the creative, artistic and operational direction of DreamWorks Animation,” said Jeffrey Katzenberg, DreamWorks Animation chief executive, in a statement Thursday.