Arkansas Repertory Theatre Suspends Operations

The Little Rock-based Arkansas Repertory Theatre will suspend its operations effective immediately due to fundraising issues.

"The inability to reach its projected goals for charitable giving and ticket sales, and the change in the theatre
landscape in Little Rock have created a perfect financial storm for The Rep," board chair Brian Bush said in a statement. "The Rep's ticket sales have been on a downhill slope for several years. Our community is on the verge of losing an amazing arts organization and tremendous asset to our city. Closing The Rep will have a devastating impact on the redevelopment of Main Street and the creative corridor."

Producing artistic director John Miller-Stephany will step down from the position on May 8 along with most other staff members. The theater will not be producing its final production of the season, God of Carnage, but will complete its obligations to host ArtWorks on Saturday, April 28, as well as Ballet Arkansas in Concert with Drew Mays, May 4-6. The organization will also continue to offer the planned spring and summer education programs under the leadership of director of education Anna Kimmell.

The organization plans to announce its next steps, created under the guidance of board chair-elect Ruth Shepherd, in August.