Florida Rep Fires Artistic Director Robert Cacioppo After Allegations of Bullying, Harassment

According to a News-Press report, Florida Repertory Theatre has fired Artistic Director Robert Cacioppo. The decision comes following allegations against Cacioppo citing what the Rep investigated as extensive, ongoing "behavioral problems" that created a hostile workplace environment. Cacioppo has since released a response to the Board's decision.

An investigation into the allegations against the former artistic director was held by the Florida Repertory Board in February 2018. Although the Board says that a "full legal case for sexual harassment" was not found, but the investigation examined behavior that included "bullying [and] demeaning individuals (particularly women)." The reports came from various individuals working at Florida Rep. Cacioppo was offered a leave-of-absence but refused to sign the agreement, leading to his firing.

Cacioppo initially remained silent following the April 6th decision, but has since released his own statement to The News-Press, defending himself against the allegations and his subsequent firing. In his statement, Cacioppo said he has been treated "unfairly" and blamed the decision on the Florida Rep Board, saying "THE BOARD HAS GOT TO GO!"

Actor and former associate artistic director Jason Parrish is currently serving as Florida Rep's interim artistic director, according to the report. A permanent replacement has yet to be announced.

Read the full News-Press report here. The report of Cacioppo's response can be found here.