ST. PETERSBURG, FLA.: American Stage Theatre Company has announced that producing artistic director Rajendra Ramoon Maharaj will step down for personal reasons, effective immediately. Maharaj began his post at American Stage in October 2021.

“I would like to thank my American Stage colleagues, our local theatre and community partners, and all those who have supported me during my fruitful time here,” Maharaj said in a statement. “I wish American Stage much success.”

American Stage’s board of trustees has named managing director CJ Zygadlo as interim executive director and will conduct a nationwide search for a new artistic leader.

“On behalf of the board, I would like to thank Rajendra for the work he has done for our organization and for sharing his talents with the Tampa Bay community,” board chair Anastasia Hiotis said in a statement. “We are excited about the future of American Stage and remain dedicated to its mission and vision of telling meaningful, compelling stories.”

A producer, playwright, and director, Maharaj previously served at Milwaukee Repertory Theater, Syracuse Stage, and New Freedom Theatre, and is a co-founder of Rebel Theater Company.

American Stage is the Tampa Bay area’s longest-running professional theatre company, bringing year-round accessible programming to each generation, connecting its community to world-class productions, and celebrating the most powerful stories of the moment.