As previously reported by Playbill.com, NYMF founding executive director Kris Stewart announced his resignation from the festival on Jan. 2. Stewart, who has been with the festival since its 2004 inception, departs to pursue new projects and his first film "Red Hook," slated for a 2008 release.

Hurtwitz retains his executive producer title. NYMF is currently seeking a managing director to assist in the festival's ever-growing year-round operation.

The 29-year-old Hurwitz commented, "Kris has been a wonderful partner and I'll miss working with him — but I'm grateful that he's leaving us in such a strong position. It's an exciting moment for NYMF, as we approach the half-decade mark, and we're fortunate to be able to start taking a longer-term view of our accomplishments and our goals. I'm excited to continue working to ensure not only that the festival is better than ever this September, but also that NYMF stays an affordable, effective, and professional launching pad for the next generation of musical theatre writers, artists and producers for years to come."

As festival continues to grow, Hurwitz and team will continue to restructure the festival in order to handle the increased interest and participation.

The annual three-week festival features musicals from around the world, culled from invitations and an open submission process. Numerous Broadway veterans lend their talents to the promising new works, many of which have found commercial life Off-Broadway in previous years. NYMF has been the breeding ground for success stories like Altar Boyz, The Great American Trailer Park Musical, The Big Voice: God or Merman, Captain Louie, Gutenberg! The Musical, Meet John Doe, Nerds:// A Musical Software Satire, [title of show] and Shout! The Mod Musical.

The fifth annual New York Musical Theatre Festival will run Sept. 15-Oct. 5, 2008. For detailed submission information and an application, visit www.nymf.org.