PHILADELPHIA, PENN. – Organizers of the Philadelphia Antiques Show are looking at a range of new approaches for 2016. The 2015 fair was cancelled after preparations were deemed insufficient.

In a March 17 letter to volunteers, steering committee members Richard Worley and Joan Johnson and 2016 show co-chairmen Anne Hamilton and Nancy Kneeland noted the resignation of the fair’s executive director, Catherine Sweeney Singer. They announced that Diana Bittel, Karen DiSaia and Ralph DiSaia had been retained to explore new options for 2016. Bittel and the DiSaias are evaluating potential locations and dates for the show and are considering its size and focus. An announcement on the show’s direction is expected in mid-April.

Richard Worley told Antiques and The Arts Weekly, “The biggest decision we have to make is whether to go back to the Pennsylvania Convention Center. The new section is a fabulous place but operating in that environment is very expensive. We decided to take a fresh look. We don’t want to prejudice the conclusion. In Diana, Karen and Ralph, we have a team that is up to the task. It is a significant task to plan and execute the Philadelphia Antiques Show.”

“We are looking at lots of possibilities in terms of the type of show and its size and location. We will be reaching out to dealers over the next few weeks. The show’s two most valuable assets are its exhibitors and volunteers. We are really excited to have this opportunity,” said Karen DiSaia.

“We are looking at venues and have to come up with numbers. Our first step is to make sure that the plan is viable. Rebuilding relationships with the committees is also a priority. The show is a partnership,” said Diana Bittel.

Bittel and the DiSaias have extensive organizational experience. Bittel manages the Delaware and Newport Antiques Shows. Karen DiSaia oversees the ADA-Historic Deerfield Show, Antiques in Manchester, the Connecticut Spring Antiques Show, the New York Botanical Garden’s Antique Garden Furniture Fair and the Washington Winter Show. Ralph DiSaia serves as facilities manager for many events.