LITTLE ROCK, ARK.: After a national search, Arkansas Repertory Theatre has announced that John Miller-Stephany will be the theatre’s new producing artistic director. Miller-Stephany, who will assume the role in October, will be the third artistic leader in the Rep’s 40-year history, succeeding Bob Hupp and founding artistic director Cliff Baker, who is currently serving as interim producing artistic director.

“John Miller-Stephany has worked at some of the most significant theatres in the country,” said board chair Brian Bush in a statement. “He is without a doubt the right leader for our organization at this point in our history. His leadership ensures a bright future for the Rep.”

Miller-Stephany comes from a diverse background, having served as a director, administrator, educator, and nonprofit theatre producer. He was artistic administrator and associate artistic director of the Guthrie Theater in Minneapolis from 1996 to 2015 and associate producer of New York City’s the Acting Company from 1989 to 1996. As an educator, Miller-Stephany has taught at the professional, college, and conservatory levels. He directed several productions at the Guthrie, and has directing credits at other theatres across the country, including Barrington Stage Company, Mixed Blood Theatre, and the Acting Company.

“While I have loved living in the Twin Cities, and am deeply grateful for all of the opportunities I’ve enjoyed at the Guthrie, I’m very eager to make a new home in Little Rock and to provide leadership for the Rep,” said Miller-Stephany.  “I believe that my experiences working with one of America’s largest resident theatres have given me insights about programming, education, and community engagement that will serve the Rep well.”

Founded in 1976, Arkansas Repertory Theatre has produced more than 300 professional productions of both new and classic works.