After 27 seasons of inspired leadership, our Co-Founder and Producing Artistic Director Karyl Lynn Burns – who, along with James O’Neil, co-founded Rubicon in 1998 – will retire following next season’s production of Ragtime. That show, one of Karyl Lynn’s favorites, will mark the close of her extraordinary tenure.
At the same time, Rubicon’s Board of Directors is thrilled to announce the appointment of J. (Jeremy) Scott Lapp as the company’s next Producing Artistic Director.
Jeremy will join The Rubicon this fall and work alongside Karyl Lynn throughout the upcoming 2025–2026 Season starting with, “Crossroads: Moments That Can Change Everything.” This important overlap will allow a smooth transition as Jeremy steps into his new role and begins shaping the artistic vision for Rubicon’s future.
Many theatre-goers already know Jeremy from his acclaimed work at the Rubicon, including last season’s Bonnie & Clyde. An award-winning director and producer, Jeremy has helmed more than 130 productions across the U.S. and internationally, from world premieres to Broadway, Off-Broadway, and the West End. His imaginative artistry, combined with a commitment to professional theatre that embraces and celebrates community, make him the ideal person to lead Rubicon into its next chapter.
Ventura’s first professional theatre company, over the past quarter-century, Rubicon has garnered numerous awards and critical acclaim while also developing dozens of new works – some of which have gone on to become part of the national and international theatrical canon. Jeremy’s track record of nurturing new works aligns beautifully with this legacy.
Karyl Lynn says it best: “Jeremy brings with him a remarkable balance of imagination, rigor, and compassion. He has worked all over the world, but he also understands the unique magic of creating professional theatre that is deeply rooted in community.”
