Kimbell will assume the title of artistic director emeritus beginning with the 2008 season, and will focus on the development of new works. John La Rock, the associate producer at NSMT, has been named producer. He will serve alongside the new artistic director, and will oversee the day-to-day programming and production duties. La Rock has been associate producer at NSMT since 1998.

NSMT is now beginning a search for a new artistic director, and is looking to complete the search by this summer.

Kimbell has directed or produced many major musicals and Shakespeare plays for NSMT, plus the premieres of 41 plays and musicals.

"It has always been my vision to establish North Shore Music Theatre as a leading institution in the development of new musicals," Kimbell said in a statement. "After 25 years, I have seen many of my goals come to fruition and now it’s time for me to take on a larger national role in finding new talent and helping to further develop the musical theater art form."

Founded in 1955, NSMT's programs include a seven-show subscription musical season, education productions and new musical development commissions. For more information visit www.nsmt.org.