David Muse, the long-serving Artistic Director of Studio Theatre, has officially announced plans to step down from his role in late 2027, concluding a remarkable 17-year tenure.
Muse joined Studio Theatre in 2010, succeeding the founder Joy Zinoman, following his role as Associate Artistic Director at Shakespeare Theatre Company.
During his time at Studio, he has been instrumental in leading over 125 productions, directing 26 plays himself, and establishing the venue as one of the United States’ premier destinations for contemporary theatre.
One of Muse’s notable achievements has been the emphasis on new play development. Under his leadership, Studio launched a vibrant incubator for new works, which has commissioned 40 artists and produced 17 world premieres.
Several of these productions have gone on to achieve success beyond Studio, including ‘Lungs’ at BAM and the Old Vic, ‘Red Speedo’ at New York Theatre Workshop, ‘Good Bones’ at The Public Theater, and ‘John Proctor is the Villain,’ which is currently on Broadway.
Moreover, Muse’s tenure has seen a strong focus on international programming, with one third of the plays produced during his time being written by international playwrights.
Additionally, Studio Theatre hosted nine international productions in Washington, DC.
Muse has made significant strides in broadening the theatre’s audience, cultivating a younger and more diverse demographic while enhancing opportunities for emerging artists.
He has overseen a considerable increase in artist compensation, which has further empowered the creative community at Studio.
In terms of infrastructure, Muse envisioned and executed Studio’s largest capital campaign to date, raising $20 million for the expansion and upgrade of the theatre’s complex.
This effort led to the creation of the Victor Shargai Theatre, a state-of-the-art venue that has transformed the creative capabilities of Studio Theatre.
In a heartfelt letter to patrons, donors, and artistic collaborators, Muse shared his reflections on his time at Studio.
He expressed feelings of accomplishment, stating, “I’ve accomplished most of what I set out to do here, and I’ve begun to feel a certain restlessness and hunger for new challenges.”
Muse added that he believes new leadership is essential for theatre refreshment, concluding that it is time for both himself and the theatre to embrace new directions.
Adrien-Alice Hansel, Studio’s Literary Director, praised Muse’s vision for expanding the artistic mission of the theatre and commended his unyielding dedication to pursuing artistically satisfying solutions amidst challenges.
The final two seasons of Muse’s tenure promise to showcase a diverse array of acclaimed contemporary plays, similar to the previous fifteen seasons, which collectively attracted nearly one million ticket sales and garnered 156 Helen Hayes nominations.
As Studio Theatre prepares for Muse’s departure, the board of trustees, led by Executive Director Rebecca Ende Lichtenberg and board chair Rob Batarla, will conduct a nationwide search for his successor.
Batarla remarked, “David will leave Studio in as strong a position, both creatively and commercially, as it has ever been. While he will definitely be missed, we know Studio will continue to thrive.”
image source from：broadwayworld
