ITHACA, N.Y.: Kitchen Theatre Company (KTC) has announced that artistic director Rachel Lampert will step down at the conclusion of the 2016–17 season.

“Next season will be my 20th as artistic director, and I feel that is a milestone and an appropriate time to start new endeavors—my third act,” said Lampert in a statement.

During her tenure, Lampert headed the KTC Family Fare Series, developing the work of young writers, directors, and producers. Over the last ten years, she built the Resident Professional Intern Program, helping recent college graduates launch their careers in theatre. Also under her leadership, KTC became an Equity theatre, and the company moved into its permanent home after a capital campaign. Lampert is also a playwright, her plays Precious Nonsense, Tony & the Soprano, and The Soup Comes Last premiered at KTC. Her directing credits at the theatre include Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf?, Frankie & Johnny in the Clair de Lune, Venus in Fur, Broke-ology, Mary’s Wedding, Last Train to Nibroc, Gutenberg! The Musical!, among others.

“Her energy and commitment have been unparalleled, with obvious results on stage,” said president of the board Barry Chester in a statement. “She also has built the Kitchen’s reputation locally and nationally among playwrights, actors, directors, donors, and grant-making organizations. An additional part of Rachel’s contribution is that she has made KTC a place where all those involved with the theater want to work. As the search begins for a successor, the board will be looking for someone who can continue KTC’s stellar trajectory, building on Rachel’s 20-year legacy.”