Jeffrey Herrmann to Depart Woolly Mammoth Theatre Company

Woolly Mammoth Theatre Company announces that at the end of its Season 34 this June, Jeffrey Herrmann will step down as Managing Director following a seven-year tenure. He will be heading to the Pacific Northwest to take on the role of Managing Director at Seattle Repertory Theatre, where he will replace Ben Moore, who is retiring after 28 years as the theatre's current Managing Director. He leaves behind a great artistic and financial legacy, having almost doubled Woolly's size during his time here in DC, spearheading the theatre's innovative Connectivity initiative, providing leadership for Woolly's "Free the Beast!" campaign, and purchasing the theatre's building.

Woolly Artistic Director Howard Shalwitz expressed gratitude for Herrmann's work at the theatre: "I will be very sad to see Jeff leave Woolly, but I am thrilled that he is joining my friend Jerry Manning at a great theatre, Seattle Rep. When Jeff came to Woolly from Alaska eight years ago, he brought a spirit of fun and adventure that energized the entire Woolly family and pushed our work forward in many areas. He leaves a legacy of innovation that is the envy of the field, including the twin successes of "Free the Beast!" and Connectivity which have transformed our work and shifted the way we think about the impact of theatre in the nation's capital. I know that everyone at Woolly joins me in wishing Jeff and his family the very best in Seattle. We will miss him."

Says President of Woolly Mammoth's Board of Trustees Scott Schreiber: "The partnership between Howard and Jeff has been transformative for Woolly in enabling the theatre to fulfill its mission, both of promoting new plays and expanding our artistic vision. Jeff's promotion of our connectivity program has permitted us to reach out to new audiences and provided an example for all American theatre to follow. While he will be personally and professionally missed, the foundation he has helped establish will ensure that Howard and our talented staff will achieve even greater artistic heights and continue to connect with new and diverse audiences."

Says Herrmann of his impending move: "Woolly Mammoth and Washington, DC have been my home for the past seven years; and while I am exhilarated by the opportunity to lead Seattle Repertory Theatre, I am saddened to be leaving a wonderful professional partner and friend in Howard Shalwitz, the finest staff in the American theatre, and a committed, generous, and inspiring community of artists, Board members, audience members, and supporters. I am heartened, however, by the fact that this job opening will be one of the most exciting opportunities in the American Theatre and I have no doubt that Woolly Mammoth will find an incredible leader to take the organization to the next level."

The search for Woolly's new Managing Director will be led by Greg Kandel and Management Consultant for the Arts.

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