MJ Bruder Munafo will be retiring as the artistic and executive director of Martha’s Vineyard Playhouse at the end of this year.

The announcement was made by Ms. Bruder Munafo on Monday afternoon in an email entitled “Exit Center Stage.”

Ms. Bruder Munafo has worked at the playhouse for 40 years and led the organization for the past 30 years, beginning in 1995.

With Jemima James and Will Mason in 2023 during Billy Baloo production.

Jeanna Shepard

With Jemima James and Will Mason in 2023 during Billy Baloo production.

Jeanna Shepard

“The years have flown by,” she wrote. “I have played many parts — as director, producer, writer, teacher, administrator — an amazing life in the theater.”

The playhouse has long been a cultural hub in Vineyard Haven, with the Patricia Neal stage showcasing both Island and mainland talent. Programming also includes children’s theatre, outdoor Shakespeare, poetry readings, art shows, musical revues and classic movies.

This past summer’s hits included The Tempest, Dear Edvard, Chilmark, Mrs. Stern Wanders the Prussian State Library, among other shows.

Ms. Bruder Munafo frequently directed plays in addition to her many other duties.

“What an honor and a privilege for me to have worked alongside some of the most dedicated, talented and wonderful theater artists — it’s truly been a dream,” she wrote. “I’m so proud of the enormous body of work on our stages during my tenure. Our Playhouse is a gem, on the island and in the pantheon of American theaters.”

Ms. Bruder Munafo said the decision was not any easy one, but the right one.

“It’s time for new adventures, for me and for the playhouse,” she wrote. “I am not leaving the Island, and retiring from this job does not mean retiring from my love of theater. I look forward to catching my breath, and figuring out what’s next.”