Former Michigan Theatre Director Disputes Firing

Steve Tucker says board members made his life "miserable" before terminating him after 14 years leading the historic venue.

Published on Feb. 4, 2026

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Former Michigan Theatre of Jackson Executive Director Steve Tucker said the theater's board terminated him last month after tensions developed between the management team and board members. Tucker disputes the board's claim that he planned to retire, saying he was given a letter on January 22nd firing him and telling him to leave by the end of the day, which came as a "total surprise and shock." Tucker said he never formally resigned and planned to continue in his role for a few more years to ensure stability and prepare a successor.

Why it matters

The Michigan Theatre is a historic 1,800-seat venue that underwent a $6.2 million restoration project under Tucker's leadership. His ouster after 14 years raises questions about the governance and leadership of the nonprofit organization that operates the theater, which is an important cultural institution in the Jackson community.

The details

Tucker says there were disputes over "inconsequential matters" since the board's composition changed in 2025, and that certain board members were "intent on replacing" him as executive director for undisclosed reasons. He says he made comments about possible retirement last fall due to frustration, but never submitted a formal resignation. The board claims Tucker said in October he would retire, leading them to end his directorship on January 22nd, which Tucker says was a "total surprise and shock." Major donors were scheduled to meet with the board's executive committee days before Tucker's firing to discuss concerns, but the meeting was canceled.

  • In October 2025, Tucker made comments about possible retirement due to frustration with the board.
  • On January 22, 2026, Tucker was given a letter terminating him from his position and telling him to leave the theater by the end of the day.

The players

Steve Tucker

The former executive director of the Michigan Theatre of Jackson, who led the historic venue for 14 years and oversaw a $6.2 million restoration project.

Nan Whitmore

The chair of the Michigan Theatre's board of directors.

Phil Curtis

A Jackson lawyer and theater supporter who led the theater's capital campaign.

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What they’re saying

“It became evident that those board members were intent on replacing me as the Executive Director for reasons that were never disclosed to me or to anyone else that I am aware of.”

— Steve Tucker, Former Executive Director (mlive.com)

“The Board's decision was based on governance considerations and alignment with the mission, values, and long-term sustainability of the organization.”

— Nan Whitmore, Board Chair (mlive.com)

What’s next

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The takeaway

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