James Morgan, the longtime artistic director of New York's York Theater Company, has stepped down from his position following controversial comments he made about diversity initiatives in theater. The resignation comes after Morgan's remarks at a recent board meeting sparked significant backlash from the theater community.
During the meeting, Morgan reportedly expressed skepticism about Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives, suggesting they might compromise artistic quality. His comments were characterized as 'hurtful' by several board members and theater professionals who were present.
The York Theater Company, known for its development of new musicals and revivals of lesser-known works, released a statement acknowledging the incident and affirming its commitment to diversity and inclusion in the arts. The board emphasized that Morgan's views did not align with the organization's values and mission.
In response to the controversy, the theater has announced several immediate actions:
- Formation of a DEI task force to review current practices
- Implementation of mandatory diversity training for staff and board members
- Creation of new initiatives to support BIPOC artists and creators
Morgan had served as the York Theater's artistic director for over 45 years, contributing significantly to its growth and reputation in New York's theater scene. The board has initiated a search for a new artistic director, stating they will prioritize candidates who demonstrate a strong commitment to diversity and inclusion in the arts.
This incident reflects a broader conversation within the theater community about representation and equity, as many institutions work to address historical inequities and create more inclusive spaces for artists and audiences alike.
