SAN ANTONIO: The Classic Theatre of San Antonio has named actor and director J. Robert “Jimmy” Moore to be its new executive and artistic director. He replaces Kelly Hilliard Roush, who left the post in May after six years in the job.

“The Classic Theatre of San Antonio is thrilled to welcome Jimmy Moore as our new executive and artistic director,” said Randy Stier, the Classic’s chairman of the board, in a statement. “We envision San Antonio as a vibrant city, rich with artistic experiences that connect communities, and we believe that live theatre supports this vision. Jimmy is a native of San Antonio who brings abundant leadership, directing, and acting experience from theatres across the nation. He has tremendous zeal, drive, and determination, and a deep commitment to reaching out to our city’s varied communities. Under Jimmy’s leadership, we eagerly anticipate San Antonians enjoying the shared experience of relevant, diverse, entertaining, and transformative performances at the Classic Theatre of San Antonio for years to come.”

Moore graduated from Marshall High School in San Antonio before receiving his BFA in production and performance and MFA in director from Texas State University. He has also studied with the Royal Shakespeare Company, Shakespeare’s Globe Theater, and the Royal Academy of Dramatic Arts in England. Since then, Moore has worked Off-Broadway and at Madison Square Garden, as well as with regional theatres across the country.

“I am excited to work with our city’s storytellers to find innovative and compelling ways for audiences to experience their favorite shows while also exploring creative additions to the classical canon,” said Moore in a statement. “I know the Classic Theatre’s artists and partner organizations have the passion, talent, and imagination to do that—so let’s take a huge step into the future together.”