Sheldon, who began as the 5th avenue box office treasurer in 1980 and later became managing director in 1988, has overseen the acclaimed regional theatre that has been the birthplace for such Broadway musicals as Hairspray, The Wedding Singer, Shrek and Catch Me If You Can.

“During my tenure here, I have considered myself the guardian of the mission of this theatre,” Sheldon said in her letter of resignation, “protecting and preserving this magnificent facility; then, presenting and producing entertaining musical theatre; and finally making arts education and outreach priorities for the community.”

Sheldon, who will exit her position at the end of 2009, will continue to advise the 5th Avenue board and management team throughout 2010 when her contract expires.

In addition to her work for the 5th Avenue, Sheldon is a member of the National Alliance for Musical Theatre, the League of American Theatres and Producers, Independent Presenters Network, and Washington State Arts Alliance.

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