Wisconsin Native Named New Artistic Director at Renaissance Theaterworks

Emily Trask to succeed retiring Suzan Fete at Milwaukee theater company.

Apr. 17, 2026 at 8:19pm

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An abstract composition of sharp, angular shapes in deep red and white, conveying the dynamic transition of a new artistic director taking over a prominent theater company.The changing of the guard at Renaissance Theaterworks signals a new era of artistic leadership and creative energy for Milwaukee's theater scene.Today in Milwaukee

Renaissance Theaterworks, a prominent Milwaukee performing arts organization, has announced the appointment of Wisconsin native Emily Trask as its new artistic director. Trask will be taking over the role from Suzan Fete, who is retiring at the end of the current season.

Why it matters

The change in artistic leadership at Renaissance Theaterworks, one of Milwaukee's most respected theater companies, represents a significant transition for the local arts scene. Trask's selection as the new director highlights the organization's commitment to nurturing local talent and maintaining its reputation for high-quality productions.

The details

Emily Trask, a Wisconsin native, will be succeeding Suzan Fete as the new artistic director of Renaissance Theaterworks. Fete is retiring at the end of the current season after leading the company for over a decade. Trask's appointment marks a homecoming of sorts, as she has built an impressive career in the theater industry outside of her home state before being selected for this prestigious role.

  • Renaissance Theaterworks announced Trask's appointment on April 17, 2026.
  • Suzan Fete will be retiring at the end of the current 2025-2026 season.

The players

Emily Trask

A Wisconsin native who has been named the new artistic director of Renaissance Theaterworks, succeeding the retiring Suzan Fete.

Suzan Fete

The outgoing artistic director of Renaissance Theaterworks, who is retiring at the end of the current season after over a decade of leadership.

Renaissance Theaterworks

A prominent Milwaukee performing arts organization known for its high-quality theater productions.

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What they’re saying

“I'm thrilled to be returning home to Wisconsin and joining the talented team at Renaissance Theaterworks. This company has a rich history of bringing compelling stories to the stage, and I look forward to building on that legacy.”

— Emily Trask, Incoming Artistic Director

“After 13 incredible years, I'm ready to pass the torch to the next generation of leadership. Emily's vision and passion for the theater make her the perfect choice to guide Renaissance Theaterworks into the future.”

— Suzan Fete, Outgoing Artistic Director

What’s next

Trask will officially assume the role of artistic director at Renaissance Theaterworks at the start of the 2026-2027 season.

The takeaway

The appointment of Emily Trask as the new artistic director of Renaissance Theaterworks represents a significant changing of the guard for one of Milwaukee's most respected performing arts organizations. Trask's homecoming and her predecessor's retirement mark an important transition that will shape the future direction of the company.