Though current managing director Dan Fallon isn't leaving until June 30, 1998, the search is already on for a replacement at Milwaukee Repertory Theatre.

Fallon, who joined the theatre in Oct. 1995, has told Rep execs he wouldn't be renewing his contract -- thus giving them enough time to scout out a replacement. "Finding a new managing director can sometimes be a long process for an organization. By giving the Rep this much notice, it should help to make for a smoother transition."

Fallon cites the Rep's recent Angels In America as his proudest achievement, though he also helped computerize the box office and give the theatre its first increase in subscriptions in six years.

Only days ago, Milwaukee Repertory ended its run of Angels In America: Millennium Approaches, a major and controversial choice. On Oct. 23 they began previews of their next show, Tom Dudzick's Over The Tavern, about a 12-year-old boy locking horns with a no-nonsense, elderly nun. A comedy/drama of Catholic life, the show follows wisecracking young Rudy as he "devises Ed Sullivan comedy routines and engages in prayerful negotiations with Jesus." The play opened Oct. 24 and runs to Nov. 23.

Tavern was staged in 1994 at Buffalo NY's Studio Arena Theatre, directed there by Terence Lamude, who repeats those duties here. Dudzick's Greetings was staged by Off-Broadway's Barrow Group in 1991. Starring in Tavern are Jamie Bennett, Lynn Brass, Judith K. Hart, Celia Howard and Christopher McHale, alongside young performers Ryan Dance and Brett Ryback. Designing the show are Gary M. English (set), Martha Hally (costumes), John McLain (lighting) and Tom Gould (sound). Darci Brown Wutz serves as choreographer.

-- By Rebecca Paller and David Lefkowitz