Tony Speciale Named New Artistic Director of Abingdon Theatre Company

Tony Speciale, director of the currently running off-Broadway show The Absolute Brightness of Leonard Pelkey, has been named the new artistic leader of Abingdon Theatre Company, succeeding Jan Buttram, who departs the organization after 22 years. Speciale's tenure there begins October 1.

"I am thrilled to be chosen by the board to lead Abingdon Theatre Company into this exciting, new chapter," Speciale said in a statement. "It will be a joy to watch what Tony's quick, talented, and loving hands will create for this resilient company," added Buttram, who cofounded the company in 1993 and departs to focus on playwriting.

An award-winning director and creator of new work, Speciale is the founder of Plastic Theatre, conceiving, co-authoring, and directing the world premiere of The Secret Court (formerly entitled Unnatural Acts). His directing credits include A Midsummer Night's Dream, Handbook for an American Revolutionary, and the Barry Manilow musical Harmony.