He will assume his post effective Jan. 1, 2006, subject to contract execution. Thompson succeeds Joanne Woodward who became the Playhouse's artistic director in 2000. Woodward will continue as artistic director through the end of this year, when she assumes the role of artistic director emeritus. She will also remain an active member of the Playhouse board of directors, and will work with Thompson on educational program development and other projects. Thompson, a director who has worked extensively in a variety of regional houses, directed The Old Settler at Westport in 2003, and his own play Constant Star at nearby Hartford Stage in 2001. New York gigs include plays at Manhattan Theatre Club, The Public Theater and Classic Stage Company. Thompson also has experience leading a theatre; he was artistic director of Syracuse Stage in the early '90s.
Thompson will be the first to command the Playhouse's newly renovated theatre.
