Theatre News Wire

After an unparalleled, decades-long career leading executive operations for one of America's flagship theaters, Roche Edward Schulfer has announced his retirement as Goodman Theatre's Executive Director/CEO at the completion of the 2023/2024 Season. Schulfer will continue as a Senior Advisor through the Goodman's Centennial Season launch in September 2025.

A Legacy of Leadership and Artistic Excellence

Roche Schulfer's retirement marks the end of an era at the Goodman Theatre, where he has dedicated 50 years of service, beginning in 1973 in the box office and serving as the Executive Director/CEO since 1980. Schulfer's impact on the Chicago theater scene has been profound, with his astute leadership and commitment to artistic excellence shaping the Goodman's trajectory over the years.

During his tenure, Schulfer oversaw more than 400 productions, including over 200 premieres, and initiated the Goodman's annual production of A Christmas Carol, which celebrated 46 years as Chicago's leading holiday arts tradition in 2023. His partnership with Artistic Director Robert Falls led to the establishment of quality, diversity, and community engagement as the core values of Goodman Theatre. Under their leadership, the Goodman received numerous awards for excellence, including the Tony Award for Outstanding Regional Theater and recognition by Time magazine as the "Best Regional Theatre" in the U.S. Schulfer also negotiated the presentation of numerous Goodman Theatre productions to national and international venues and coordinated the 12-year process to relocate the Goodman to the Theatre District in 2000.

Impact on the Chicago Theater Community

Schulfer's influence extended beyond the Goodman Theatre, as he was a founder and twice chair of the League of Chicago Theatres, and served in leadership roles with various theater organizations, including Arts Alliance Illinois, Theatre Communications Group, and the Performing Arts Alliance. His commitment to providing opportunities for underrepresented voices on stage and behind the scenes has left a lasting impact on the entire Chicago theater community.

Michelle T. Boone, President and CEO of the Poetry Foundation, expressed her gratitude for Schulfer's influential role in the Chicago theater scene, stating, "I can't think of anyone who has been more influential on the Chicago theater scene than Roche Schulfer." Schulfer's leadership and mentorship have been instrumental in shaping the careers of numerous individuals in the theater community, earning him the respect and admiration of his peers and colleagues.

Continuing the Legacy

As Schulfer prepares to step down, the Goodman Theatre has named longtime Managing Director/COO John Collins as the new Executive Director, beginning September 1, 2024. Collins will take the helm as the Goodman continues to build on its legacy of artistic excellence and community engagement. The theater's artistic priorities, including new play development, large-scale musical theater works, and reimagined classics, will continue to be at the forefront under Collins' leadership.

A Lasting Impact

Roche Schulfer's retirement is a momentous occasion for the Goodman Theatre and the broader Chicago theater community. His dedication to artistic excellence, advocacy for underrepresented voices, and commitment to community engagement have left an indelible mark on the theater's legacy. As the Goodman Theatre looks toward its Centennial Celebration and beyond, Schulfer's influence will continue to resonate, shaping the future of the theater and the next generation of theater artists.

Roche Schulfer's retirement after 50 years at the Goodman Theatre is a testament to his enduring legacy as a visionary leader and advocate for the arts. His impact on the Chicago theater community and the Goodman Theatre's artistic programming and community engagement will be felt for years to come. As the theater transitions to new leadership, Schulfer's contributions will continue to inspire and shape the future of one of America's flagship theaters.