WPCNR Phantom of the Arts. By John F. Bailey. November 10, 2004: Christopher Beach, scion of the Hamilton-Beach fortune, longtime Executive Director of the SUNY Purchase Performing Arts Center will be stepping down as its Executive Director, WPCNR has learned. Mr. Beach told his staff he would be leaving at a meeting Tuesday morning, according to a WPCNR source. Calls to the Director of Public Relations and Mr. Beach were not returned yesterday or today, however a news release is being prepared confirming Mr. Beach's departure. Beach is expected to serve through 2005, leaving in 2006, creating a void at one of the most prestigious theatre complexes in area. A source familiar with the SUNY arts center informed WPCNR a national search will be conducted to select a successor to Mr. Beach.

SUNY Purchase Performing Arts Center showcases a wide variety of prestigious events throughut the year at a $36 million theatre complex adjacent to White Plains. It grosses $6 Million in revenues, and loses money to the tune of $400,000 a year. Mr. Beach's career there has spanned approximately 18 years, according to an office source. No reason for the departure was given.

Mr. Beach did not return calls for comment yesterday or this morning when contacted by WPCNR.