Michael Ross, managing director of the Westport Country Playhouse since January 2009, will leave the position and rejoin the Center Stage in Baltimore, Md. as managing director on July 1 where he previously served in that role from 2002 to 2008.
Michael Ross: returning to Baltimore. Helen Klisser During for WestportNow.com
A Playhouse announcement said Ross will take over from current managing director, Stephen Richard, who will retire on June 30.
“Michael’s accomplishments during his tenure at the Playhouse have helped light up this historic theater,” said Barbara Streicker, chair of the Playhouse Board of Trustees.
“He has built an amazing staff here. He has championed community engagement initiatives, sparked subscription and single ticket sales, inspired fundraising efforts, and is a well-known and respected leader in Westport and beyond. Michael has put the Playhouse on a positive path towards a bright future.”
The announcement said the Playhouse Board of Trustees has begun the search for a new managing director.
Ross will be part of the search team and will work with the Playhouse board and staff for a smooth transition prior to his departure. Streicker said.
“We are thankful that Michael will be here for the next six months helping the board and artistic director Mark Lamos in planning for the leadership transition,” she said.
Lamos joined the Playhouse with Ross in 2009 and together they have produced more than 30 Playhouse shows.
“Michael has been an amazing partner,” Lamos said in the announcement of Ross’s departure.
“I am proud of the work we have done together and I am delighted for the wonderful opportunity he has to return to a city he loves—-and for the chance to team up with a brilliant artistic director in Kwame Kwei-Armah.
“Michael has given the Playhouse so much, and he’s put so many things into place that have contributed to our continuing growth. We are very lucky that he will be with us through the big opening of our 2016 season in the spring.”
The Westport Country Playhouse 2016 season begins on May 3 with “Art” and “Red” in repertory, both directed by Lamos.
We will miss Michael’s smiling face and grand welcome for all who attend the Playhouse.
Michael has been a class act … and more importantly he has accomplished more than anyone else EVER at the WCP.
Sad to see him go, but as sherriff his job is done here, and time to move on to other challenges, damn it!
Baltimore is lucky to have him back! Thanks for being here, pal!