FORT MYERS, FLA.: Florida Repertory Theatre has announced that executive director John Martin will retire at the end of the season. Martin has been with the theatre for 23 years.

“My love and devotion for Florida Rep, my many extraordinary colleagues, our tireless volunteers, and magnificent contributors are unmeasured,” Martin said in a statement. “It has been my true pleasure to serve and I have enjoyed everything we have done together ensuring a brilliant future.”

Before coming to Florida Rep, Martin worked in community organizing, law, public administration, and nonprofit development. In addition to his career with the New York City Human Rights Commission, Martin previously served as the managing director of Theatre Rhinoceros. He has also served on the boards of nonprofits in New York, California, and Florida, and was a panelist for the Florida Division of Arts and Culture for many years.

“It has been an absolute honor to serve next to John Martin,” Florida Rep producing artistic director Greg Longenhagen said in a statement. “John’s leadership over the last twenty-three years has been key to Florida Rep’s survival and endurance. He has been a true partner to me and a stabilizing force for this theatre company.”

The theatre’s board of directors has launched a national search for the next executive director and plans to interview candidates throughout the summer.

Florida Repertory Theatre is committed to providing a first-class regional theatre for Southwest Florida. Founded in 1998, Florida Rep creates, nurtures, and develops a diverse ensemble of theatre professionals and improves the community through the arts. As of 2022, the theatre had a budget of approximately $4.1 million.