"My first objective has been bringing greater access and transparency to the Huntington's new play development activities," Timmel said in a statement. "A pledge to produce new work is nothing without an authentic conversation between the theatre and playwrights both locally and across the country. Already, we have implemented an open application process for the Huntington Playwriting Fellows program, an ongoing reading series to replace our annual Breaking Ground festival, and a renewed emphasis on commissioning work for production on Huntington stages with two commissions per season to prominent writers."

The Huntington also named Charles Haugland to serve as the literary associate, who will work with artistic director Peter DuBois in a two-year mentorship. His duties will include implementing changes to the Huntington’s play submission process, hosting a new podcast series and leading a new post-show talkback series.

"The Huntington has always been a home for new work, and our new play development and programming activities are already evolving because of Lisa’s pragmatic vision and Charles’ fresh perspective," DuBois said. "Lisa has laid out smart changes to our programs with artists, and Charles’ presence promises to foster a dynamic, ongoing conversation with our audiences. Moving forward, the literary office will be a vital connector between the theatre’s artistic voice and our audiences through discussions, readings, online content, and more."

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