René Copeland is preparing to step down from her position as artistic director of Nashville Repertory Theatre after a 15-year run.
The move comes as the company closes its 34th season and as its board is “setting a new direction,” according to a release.
Copeland’s decision to step down also coincides with Nashville Repertory Theatre’s recent announcement that it will expand its arts education and youth programming and return to TPAC’s Polk Theater. The company was launched in 1985. Martha Ingram is a co-founder and her name graces the theater's play incubation program, the Ingram New Works Project.
Nashville Rep Managing Director Drew Ogle will oversee programming in an interim role as the nonprofit’s board searches for a replacement.
“René is an extraordinary artist who has dedicated her career to creating theatre in Nashville,” board president Bonnie Dow says in a release. “Since joining the Rep in 2004, she has been at the helm of over 40 shows, including some of our most memorable productions.”
Copeland directed the majority of Nashville Rep’s productions during her tenure. Recent titles include A Raisin in the Sun, Sweeney Todd, Cabaret, Chicago, and the company’s record-breaking 10-year run of A Christmas Story.
