Fish Creek, Wis. (December 13, 2024) – Northern Sky Theater is thrilled to announce an exciting new chapter in its storied history with a leadership transition that honors both its remarkable past and its dynamic future. After 32 years as artistic director, Jeff Herbst will transition to emeritus status in 2025, passing the torch to Molly Rhode, currently the company’s associate artistic director. This transition, in alignment with the theater’s leadership succession plan, is poised to usher in a vibrant new era as the Door County company celebrates its 35th anniversary.
Assuming the role of artistic director in 1993, Herbst has been a visionary force behind Northern Sky, shaping the company into the beloved cultural institution it is today. Under his stewardship, Northern Sky has produced more than 80 original works, creating a vast and varied repertoire that has resonated with audiences across the region and beyond. Herbst’s leadership has not only fostered artistic excellence, but also expanded the company’s influence and outreach, nurturing a community of passionate fans, artists, and collaborators.
“It has truly been my honor to be involved with this company,” said Herbst. “It has been my mainstay artistic home for forty years and given me countless opportunities to flex my creativity and work and play with outstanding talent.”
Heidi Ling, Northern Sky’s board chair, shared her appreciation for Herbst’s legacy. “Jeff’s influence on Northern Sky and the Door County arts community is immeasurable. I’ve been asked what we would have done without Jeff’s leadership and vision. Quoting his beloved ‘Belgians in Heaven’ character Henry, ‘I donnn’t know.’ His unwavering dedication to storytelling and his talent for inspiring new voices leave a lasting impact. We are so grateful for his leadership and thrilled he will continue to guide the company in his emeritus role.”
In his new emeritus capacity, Herbst will remain a vital part of the Northern Sky family, offering his guidance to ensure a smooth transition. His mentorship will help lay the foundation for the next generation of artistic leadership, which will be led by the incredibly talented Rhode.
“Molly has been my associate for eleven years and has been my co-equal in making things happen during that time,” Herbst added. “I look forward to an ongoing professional relationship with her and the company.”
Rhode’s appointment as artistic director marks a natural progression in her longstanding partnership with Northern Sky. She has been with the company for 17 years in various capacities, including actor, director, choreographer, writer, and producer. Rhode is deeply committed to Northern Sky’s mission and has been instrumental in the development of its acclaimed original programming. As associate artistic director since 2014, Rhode has played a central role in curating new works and expanding Northern Sky’s audience engagement.
“I am beyond honored to step into the role of artistic director at Northern Sky,” said Rhode. “I am deeply grateful to Jeff for his mentorship over the years and for the foundation he’s built. I am excited to build on his legacy, working alongside our incredible team to continue creating works that inspire, entertain, and celebrate the heart of the Midwest.”
Rhode brings a wealth of experience to her new role, with a distinguished background in theater that includes a passion for developing new works. She has worked on developing new plays across the state including 28 world premieres at Northern Sky. She holds a degree in Theater Studies from Southern Methodist University with a double emphasis in Playwriting and Directing. Her extensive career includes performing on stages across Milwaukee, Madison, Spring Green, and Door County. She continues to be a key leader in the broader theater community, including her work with World Premiere Wisconsin.
This leadership transition will officially take place at the start of Northern Sky Theater’s 2025 season, which will also mark the company’s milestone 35th anniversary. It promises to be a year of celebration, honoring Herbst’s incredible contributions to the company and welcoming the bright future ahead under Rhode’s direction.
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