Edward Coffield has been named Artistic Director of the New Jewish Theatre, replacing Kathleen Sitzer, who is retiring, after 22 years, in July. 

Coffield has been Associate Artistic Director at NJT for the past 16 years. During this time, he has directed more than 15 productions including “My Mother’s Lesbian Jewish Wiccan Wedding,” “Yentl,” and “Driving Miss Daisy” (the original 2005 NJT production). Coffield has also served as Production Manager at the Repertory Theatre of St. Louis for the past 28 years.

“We are beyond thrilled that Edward will be leading New Jewish Theatre,” said Zelda Sparks, Director of Cultural Arts at the Jewish Community Center, of which NJT is a part. “He’s extremely talented and knows our theater so well. I can think of no better person to take the reins.” 

At the most recent St. Louis Theater Circle Awards in March, Coffield was nominated for Outstanding Director of a comedy and is a three-time nominee for the Kevin Kline Award for Outstanding Direction. 

“I am thrilled and excited to be the next artistic director of The New Jewish Theatre,” said Coffield.  “NJT has long been my artistic home and I am so proud of the organization that Kathleen Sitzer has allowed the theater to become. I look forward to continue the growth and success of NJT.”

Added Sitzer: “I couldn’t be more delighted. Edward has been an integral part of our theater for over 15 years. He is a well-known and beloved member of the St. Louis theater community. There is probably not a single theater that he hasn’t in some way touched.”

Coffield assumes his new role at NJT in July.