Lincoln Center Theater Executive Producer Bernard Gersten Steps Down Today

J. Tomilson Hill, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Lincoln Center Theater, previously announced that Bernard Gersten has decided to step down as the Theater's Executive Producer, a position he has held for 28 years, as of today, June 30, 2013.

Mr. Hill said, "Lincoln Center Theater is truly fortunate to have been the beneficiary of Bernard's dedication, vision, grace, and his gift for working with André Bishop to create a leadership position for our theater."

As Executive Producer since Lincoln Center Theater's inception in 1985, Mr. Gersten has guided the growth and development of LCT, the theatrical constituent of Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts housed in the Vivian Beaumont, Mitzi E. Newhouse and the newly-opened Claire Tow Theaters, from what was widely thought of as an unworkable venue into one of the country's leading institutional theaters. Over the last 27 years, Mr. Gersten has overseen, (initially with Gregory Mosher, and since 1991 with current Artistic Director André Bishop), more than 147 productions in LCT's Lincoln Center houses as well as on Broadway, off-Broadway, and on national and international tours.

Mr. Gersten said, "We've had a terrific run for 27 years at Lincoln Center Theater and with a devoted Board and a crackerjack staff, the Theater can look forward to the next 27."

Mr. Bishop said, "Working with Bernie has been glorious - that's the word. We've had a wonderful partnership and a wonderful friendship. All of us at LCT owe him so much and love him so deeply. He is an amazing and generous creature. Always has been, always will be."

There will be no successor to Mr. Gersten named as Executive Producer. Lincoln Center Theater will continue to operate under the continuing direction of Mr. Bishop with its current staff.

Photo courtesy ltc.org.

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