The Vancouver Fringe Festival announced today that its executive director Laura Efron is stepping down from her post after overseeing two installments of the theatre celebration.

“It has been an honour to immerse myself into an organization that is so surrounded by enthusiasm and community support,” Efron said in the press statement today. “I am proud that I was able to play a significant part in providing thousands of people with the opportunity to share stories and experiences that were inspiring and impactful. I feel confident that the current team including the board, year-round staff, seasonal staff, and dedicated volunteers will move forward and continue offering excellent Festivals and making other positive impacts within the arts community.”

The Fringe board of directors says it's launching a search committee that will include community representation.

Efron returned the Vancouver Fringe to a surplus position, increased financial payouts to artists, and prioritized equity, diversity, and Inclusion work.

In 2017, she had replaced former executive director David Jordan, who moved on after 12 years to become arts services manager for the City of Burnaby, a position that oversees the Shadbolt Centre for the Arts, fests at Deer Lake Park, and more.