Director to leave the Playhouse

Laguna Playhouse Executive Director Richard Stein has announced his resignation.

Stein said he plans to pursue artistic projects.

“We appreciate Rick’s dedicated service to The Laguna Playhouse over the past 17 years,” said Playhouse Board of Trustees President Andrew Donchak. “Naturally, we’re sad to see him leave, but certainly wish him much success in his future endeavors.”

“I have longed to spend more time on the artistic side of theater, and that’s difficult to do while meeting the demands of being an executive director. I couldn’t be more proud of my years here at the Laguna Playhouse and my partnership with Artistic Director Andrew Barnicle,” Stein said.

“I also appreciate the generosity of the playhouse trustees and the devotion of the hard-working staff.”

“During our tenure together, Rick and I have helped guide the playhouse to its position as one of the leading regional theaters in Southern California. Rick leaves behind a great legacy, including working with me to select the plays that comprise our 87th season, which starts this July. He’ll be missed,” Barnicle said.

Barnicle, along with Playhouse CFO Bob Crowson, will share Stein’s duties until a successor is found. A nationwide search will be launched soon.

Stein assumed the Executive Director position at the playhouse in March 1990. In partnership with Barnicle, who joined the company the following year, Stein played a key role in the playhouse’s transformation from an amateur theater to its current status as one of the region’s most respected non-profit theaters.

Apart from his administrative leadership, Stein’s directorial credits with Laguna Playhouse included a wide range of productions, among them several award-winning world, national and regional premieres.