Millman will stay on as the Asolo's leader through June 30, 2006, "to provide for an orderly transition and will remain involved as an advisor in the selection of his replacement."

In his statement, Millman said, "I came here in 1995 to turn this theatre around. I feel confident that I have accomplished this task and guided the theatre on a path to financial and creative success."

During his tenure as the Asolo's leader, Millman reinstated the rotating repertory process, created a permanent acting company, and strengthened the Conservatory's participation on the Asolo stage, according to the theatre's announcement of his retirement. Over the last six years, the organization achieved a balanced budget and built the subscriber base to nearly 8,000.

"I can honestly say that my time with the Asolo has been the most rewarding of my professional life," said Millman.

He and the board have discussed a continuing potential relationship, which will depend on the needs of the incoming producing artistic director. Millman said, "There still are tasks for me to accomplish. That is why we agreed to a 2-1/2 year contract. I feel sure that is enough time for a very orderly and productive transition. It will allow enough time to advise the new producing artistic director on the intricate process of designing a season in rotating repertory — a theatrical form rarely used in the United States."

Millman plans to travel in his retirement.

The resident Equity company's current season includes The Crucible, The Road to Ruin, The Millionairess, I'm Not Rappaport, Murder by Misadventure, The Diary of Anne Frank and Hay Fever (in the Mertz Theatre), and Noel Coward at the Cafe de Paris and The Smell of the Kill in the intimate Cook Theatre.

The Florida State University/Asolo Conservatory students also presents shows in the Cook Theatre. This season The Competition, The Shape of Things, The Taming of the Shrew and Arms and the Man are being presented.

For more information, visit www.asolo.org.