LINCOLN, NEBRASKA (February 27, 2026)
Lincoln Community Playhouse today announced that Executive Director Morrie Enders will retire later this year after 16 years of transformative leadership. The Playhouse Board of Directors has begun a thoughtful search process for the organization’s next leader, ensuring a smooth and celebratory transition.
Since joining the Playhouse in 2009, Enders has guided the organization through a pivotal period of renewal and growth. Through steady leadership, fiscal discipline, and an unwavering commitment to artistic excellence, Enders helped breathe new life into the organization while strengthening the Playhouse’s role as a cultural cornerstone for Lincoln and the surrounding region.
Under his tenure, the Playhouse produced excellent community theatre, expanded its educational programs, increased audience engagement, and deepened partnerships with schools, artists, and community organizations. The Playhouse also strengthened its operational foundation, positioning the institution for long-term sustainability and continued community impact.
“Morrie has given his heart to this Playhouse and to this community,” said Board of Directors & President, Bob Everitt. “When he stepped into this role 16 years ago, the organization needed steady hands, clear vision, and deep commitment. Morrie delivered all of that and more. The Playhouse today is stronger, more vibrant, and more connected to Lincoln because of his leadership. While we will miss him greatly, the Board is grateful for everything he built and excited to honor his legacy by carrying the momentum forward.”
Enders reflected on his time at the Playhouse with appreciation for both the institution and the community and people who allow it to thrive. “It has been a privilege to serve the Lincoln Community Playhouse and this community,” Enders said. “The real strength of this theatre has always been its people, our dedicated staff, talented artists, committed volunteers, and loyal audiences. Together, we celebrated many joyful seasons. I’m proud of what we’ve accomplished, confident in the Playhouse’s future, and grateful for the opportunity to have been part of this remarkable story.”
Before coming to Lincoln, Enders built a long and respected career in community theatre across the Midwest. He earned both bachelor’s and master’s degrees in theatre and began his professional path directing and managing productions. He served as Artistic/Managing Director of La Crosse Community Theatre in Wisconsin for 18 years, where he developed strong programs and deep community engagement. In addition to his leadership roles, Morrie’s productions have been performed internationally in places such as Germany, Monaco, and Japan and he has been recognized with the Distinguished Merit Award from the American Association of Community Theatre’s and is a Fellow of that organization.
“I look back happily on many productions and performances over the years and on the relationships built across our community,” Enders said. “But what I’m most proud of is the outreach and partnerships we’ve created together—those are the heart and soul of community theatre. Programs like the Penguin Project, Broadway Sr., and our deep partnerships with local schools are where the real magic happens.”
A Search Committee comprised of members of the Board of Directors will lead a national search for the next Executive Director with the support of a local search consultant. Additional details about the process will be shared soon. The Board has emphasized that the transition is grounded in gratitude for Enders’ contributions and a commitment to sustaining the Playhouse’s artistic vitality and community impact.
Enders will remain in his role through fall, working closely with the Board and staff to ensure continuity of programming, operations, and relationships during the transition.
The show will joyfully go on throughout the transition. Founded in 1946, the Lincoln Community Playhouse is the region’s premier community theatre, dedicated to bringing joy to the stage and beyond through high quality productions, education programs, and community engagement.