David Haberbush, president of the board of directors for the Long Beach Playhouse has announced the appointment of Andrew Vonderschmitt as the interim managing director effective immediately. Vonderschmitt replaces Joan Van Hooten, who has resigned from her position as executive director effective May 3, 2010.
 “I feel that much of what I was hired to do has been accomplished,” said Van Hooten in her letter of resignation. Van Hooten was named the executive director in 2008.
“On behalf of the board, the trustees and volunteers, I want to thank Joan for all of her accomplishments in the past 18 months,” said Haberbush. “The Board of Directors has been expanded, the number of Playhouse volunteers has increased, the website has been redesigned and, of course, the Joey “The Saint” Valentine’s Speakeasy 80th anniversary celebration in February brought new visibility and enthusiasm to the Playhouse. We wish Joan all the best.”
