SAN FRANCISCO: Crowded Fire Theater has announced that managing director Tiffany Cothran will depart on Oct. 7, following the world premiere production of Christopher Chen’s A Tale of Autumn at the theatre. The board of directors will lead a search for Cothran’s successor.

“Tiffany has been a pillar of our organization, a closely held member of our creative family, and a friend,” said artistic director Mina Morita in a statement. “Though we will miss her greatly, our staff, board, and Resident Artist company are thrilled that she is taking this opportune moment to explore new possibilities. Crowded Fire is experiencing tremendous growth and financial stability. It is a testament to her, after achieving and surpassing so many of the goals set 10 years ago, that she can transition us so considerately into new hands.”

During Cothran’s decade-long tenure, Crowded Fire Theater’s operating budget increased from $50,000 to $300,000. The company obtained a three-year rehearsal and office space lease from Golden Thread Productions, and is a resident company at Potrero Stage. Cothran supported early career professional through the Resident Artists company. She also led the company through three artistic director transitions including  Kent Nicholson and Cassie Beck, Marissa Wolf, and Mina Morita.

“I am incredibly proud of the growth we’ve accomplished in my tenure with Crowded Fire,” said Cothran in a statement. “The company, a powerhouse for developing new and exciting work, is poised to continue that trajectory by deepening and strengthening our relationship with Bay Area artists and our loyal audience. Crowded Fire has been an amazing professional home for me—a place of personal growth and powerful friendships. As I look ahead at future opportunities for myself, I am equally excited for Crowded Fire’s opportunity to seek new leadership. Change can be a very positive catalyst for growth, and the new managing director will find a company that is primed for that challenge!”