New Interim Boss At ART
With Robert Woodruff out, the American Repertory Theatre needs a new artistic director. For now, it'll be Gideon Lester, Woodruff's right-hand man over the last five years. Lester, the ART's associate artistic director under Woodruff, will be his interim replacement as the organization searches for a new, permanent artistic director and plans its 2007-08 season.
Lester, reached yesterday, threw his hat in the ring for the permanent ART gig. But he said he's not viewing this appointment as a try-out.
"Right now, I'm not really thinking about that," said Lester. "I'm focussing on steering the organization through next season. I know I'll learn a tremendous amount."
Here's the email sent out by ART Executive Director Robert Orchard:
Dear All,
With Robert's departure it's obviously essential that we maintain the quality of artistic oversight and planning central to our work. With this in mind I'm pleased to announce that Gideon has agreed to take on the additional responsibilities as interim Artistic Director for the balance of this season and as a partner with me in planning next season. We've been reaching out to a number of artists and have already sketched out a variety [of] scenarios for next season. Thanks to your talent and loyalty in this transitional period, I'm certain that the work ahead this year and the choices we have for next season will continue to inspire us and make us proud.
Sincerely,
Rob
Gideon Lester
