"Michael Price has been an extraordinary and tireless leader of Goodspeed Musicals for virtually its entire existence," said John F. (Jef) Wolter, president of the Goodspeed board of trustees, in a statement. "In 1968, he arrived at a small, struggling summer theatre and built it into one of the most respected, artistically successful and financially secure theatres in the country. The institution he entrusts to his successor is among the elite of American artistic institutions, having shaped musical theatre for generations of audiences and artists from our East Haddam and Chester stages to Broadway and beyond. We are extremely grateful for Michael's service and leadership."
"I have had the honor and the privilege of leading Goodspeed Musicals for more than 45 years but believe with my whole heart, that the time has come to pass the reins onto someone new who will lead the institution into its next phase," added Price. "The greatest joy is working with the most incredible theatrical team ever assembled, a team that together will take Goodspeed to even greater heights. I look forward to working with our board of trustees and staff during the transition period.
"It has been my privilege and thrill to lead Goodspeed and help make theatre magic. Every Goodspeed production has been a joint effort between our audience members, our board of trustees, our supporters, our amazing staff and some of the most talented artists—both on the stage and behind the scenes—to ever work in theatre. I know that with their continued passion and support, Goodspeed’s future is brighter than ever."
The board of trustees will conduct a national search for a new executive director who is expected to assume leadership of Goodspeed in late 2014.
As the longest serving artistic director in American theatre, Price has produced more than 235 musicals, 75 world premieres, transferred 19 shows to Broadway and transformed Goodspeed Musicals into an internationally recognized home for American musical theatre. For more on Price, click here to visit his page at the Playbill Vault.
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