She came to Tarragon in its second season, 1972-1973, as the theatre manager. She has been the general manager since 1978.

Tarragon will commence a search for Gilbert's replacement early in the New Year with the objective to have someone in place before her departure in July 2006.

In making her announcement, Gilbert said, "Tarragon has been much more than a job for me. When I joined the staff in 1972, it was truly an exciting time to be involved with a theatre company and Tarragon suited me perfectly. What impressed me then – and still impresses me – was the passion that informed the work, both on-stage and off. I am also very fortunate to have shared the responsibility with three extremely talented artistic directors: Bill Glassco, Urjo Kareda and Richard Rose. I have worked as a team with each one of them, making artistic and financial choices that have always been totally supported by our board and staff. As a result, Tarragon is one of the healthiest theatres in Canada."

The company owns its building, is deficit-free, and has an endowment of over $1.2 million.

"As a playwrights' theatre, we have developed and premiered 131 new Canadian plays and translated and premiered 25 new plays in English, which works out to 4.6 premieres per season over the life of the theatre," Gilbert said. "As you can see, I'm excessively proud of the Tarragon. I have been privileged to work with wonderful people: board members, hundreds of artists, technicians and administrative staff; volunteers, and the audience. Who could ask for more? While I have no intention of taking on another full-time position, I have lots of energy and I'm looking forward to whatever opportunities await me. My loyalty will always remain with the Tarragon."