Bruce Lumpkin Named TUTS' Artistic Director

John Breckenridge, president and CEO of Theatre Under The Stars (TUTS), has announced Bruce Lumpkin will join the staff as Artistic Director. In this position, Lumpkin will maintain artistic oversight of TUTS' producing operations, including all self-produced shows and galas, as well as provide creative direction to TUTS' Humphreys School of Musical Theatre.

"I am very excited to come home to be a part of the theatre where my career began," said Lumpkin. He is a Houston native who began his directing career at TUTS' Humphreys School of Musical Theatre as the resident director. His most recent works at TUTS include White Christmas and Miss Saigon.

Lumpkin's experience includes working with Tommy Tune on the Broadway productions of Grand Hotel, Nine and My One and Only. He also co-directed Grand Hotel on London's West End, served on the creative team for the national tours of Dr. Doolittle and Nine and has directed regional productions at respected theatres across the nation. Lumpkin received the Barrymore Award for Best Director and Best Musical for his revisionist look at Cabaret.

"We are delighted to bring Bruce to TUTS as the artistic director," said Steve Burkett, chairman of TUTS' board of directors. "His passion for the theatre and impressive talent level will serve as a perfect fit for TUTS' mission of enriching life through the experience of quality musical theatre."