Sherman will stay on for this summer's events as a consultant with the 39-year-old center known for developing new works in summer sessions. The firm of Albert Hall & Associates has been employed to take on the search process.

"I'm very proud of what we've been able to achieve at The O'Neill over the past several years," said Sherman in a statement. "I am stepping down from the role of executive director, but continuing my association with The O'Neill, so that I can pursue opportunities which reunite me with the producing process."

Chairman of the board of trustees Tom Viertel stated, "The board and I are very sorry to lose Howard, who has done so much for The O'Neill, and deeply appreciative of the excellent and selfless work he's done in so many areas. We wish him well as he pursues other avenues in theatre and are delighted with his willingness to work with us through the transition, to everyone's benefit."

Robert Wildman recently served as Connecticut Repertory Theatre's managing director for seven years. He was also head of marketing and public relations for the Long Wharf Theatre and Yale Repertory Theatre.

Stephen Belber (Tape), Bill Irwin (Fool Moon) and writer-in-residence Adam Rapp (Nocturne), as well as composers Duncan Sheik (Spring Awakening) and Laurence O'Keefe (Bat Boy: The Musical) will take part in the 2003 O'Neill Playwrights Conference and Music Theater Conference this summer. For tickets to events at the O'Neill Theater Center, call the box office at (860) 443-1238. For more information, visit the website at www.oneilltheatercenter.org.