New Theatre Leaders Named at Milagro, Everyman, HERE Arts & Laguna Playhouse

Regional theatres across the country announce leadership changes, signaling a dynamic period of growth and adaptation.

Published on Feb. 28, 2026

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The American theatre landscape is undergoing a significant period of transition, with several prominent organizations announcing new leadership. These changes, occurring across the country from Oregon to New York and California, signal a commitment to artistic excellence and a willingness to adapt to evolving audience expectations. The appointments reflect a dynamic period of growth and adaptation within the regional theatre ecosystem.

Why it matters

These leadership changes indicate a period of evolution and adaptation within the regional theatre landscape, with a focus on artistic excellence, community engagement, and diversity. The appointment of second-generation leaders like Maya Malan-Gonzalez at Milagro Theatre ensures continuity and a deep understanding of the organization's mission, while the emphasis on local talent and community engagement at Everyman Theatre and Laguna Playhouse reflects a broader trend in the industry.

The details

In Portland, Oregon, Milagro Theatre has appointed Maya Malan-Gonzalez as its interim artistic director, effective January 1st. Malan-Gonzalez, a lifelong member of Milagro and current board president, steps into the role as the theatre conducts a nationwide search for a permanent leader. Meanwhile, Everyman Theatre in Baltimore has named Brandon Weinbrenner as its next artistic director, succeeding founding artistic director Vincent M. Lancisi, who is retiring after 35 years. In New York City, HERE Arts Center is adjusting its co-leadership structure, with Lauren Miller departing at the end of January to pursue political organizing. On the West Coast, Laguna Playhouse has announced Adele Adkins as its new managing director, bringing over 25 years of experience in nonprofit theatre management and programming.

  • Malan-Gonzalez's appointment at Milagro Theatre is effective January 1st.
  • Weinbrenner will assume his role as Everyman Theatre's artistic director in July.
  • Miller will depart HERE Arts Center at the end of January.

The players

Maya Malan-Gonzalez

Interim artistic director of Milagro Theatre in Portland, Oregon, and a lifelong member of the theatre. She is also the current board president and has appeared in 20 productions at Milagro.

Brandon Weinbrenner

The next artistic director of Everyman Theatre in Baltimore, succeeding founding artistic director Vincent M. Lancisi, who is retiring after 35 years. Weinbrenner is currently the associate artistic director at the Alley Theatre in Houston.

Lauren Miller

The co-director of HERE Arts Center in New York City, who is departing at the end of January to pursue political organizing.

Adele Adkins

The new managing director of Laguna Playhouse on the West Coast, bringing over 25 years of experience in nonprofit theatre management and programming.

Vincent M. Lancisi

The founding artistic director of Everyman Theatre in Baltimore, who is retiring after 35 years.

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What they’re saying

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, Grocery employee (Instagram)

The takeaway

These leadership changes reflect a dynamic period of growth and adaptation within the regional theatre ecosystem, with a focus on artistic excellence, community engagement, and diversity. The appointment of second-generation leaders like Maya Malan-Gonzalez at Milagro Theatre ensures continuity and a deep understanding of the organization's mission, while the emphasis on local talent and community engagement at Everyman Theatre and Laguna Playhouse reflects a broader trend in the industry.