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<i>Commentary</i><br>Observations on Artistic Director's Suit Against Geffen Playhouse

By Todd R. Wulffson

The recent age and disability discrimination lawsuit filed by Randall Arney against the Geffen Playhouse, where he served as artistic director since 1999, seems to raise some serious legal and factual flaws based on just what is alleged in the Los Angeles Superior Court complaint. Arney v. Geffen Playhouse, BC673176.

First, the decision to sue the two playhouse board co-chairs, Pamela Henderson and Martha Robinson, as individuals is questionable. The complaint alleges that they slandered and defamed Arney in February by sending a letter to Geffen board members informing them that Arney's contract (which was expiring by its own terms) would not be renewed in order to “position the theatre for the future.” The letter stated that Arney was involved in the decision-making process, and had voluntarily agreed to transition from his role in order to pursue other professional opportunities. At the same time, the Geffen executive director Gil Cates Jr. released a statement praising Arney's “varied and numerous” contributions to the Geffen, and thanking him for his “inspired artistic leadership, unwavering commitment to our mission, and for leaving his indelible mark on our beloved institution.” Arney made no public statement regarding the February announcement.

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