In a statement McCarter artistic director Emily Mann said, "I'm delighted that my colleague and friend, Tim Shields, will be returning to McCarter Theatre as our managing director. Tim's energy, passion and love for the work we create at McCarter coupled with his superlative management skills will bring us new energy to meet the challenges, both economic and cultural, that face all arts institutions in this new era. Tim is right for McCarter at this moment in time, and we are right for him."

Joann Mitchell, president of the McCarter Theatre Board of Trustees, added, "It is with great pleasure that we welcome back Tim Shields to McCarter. Tim was general manager at McCarter Theatre in the early nineties before leaving to distinguish himself as a managing director. His experience, knowledge and passion for the theatre as well as his national reputation can only enhance our work. The partnership of Mr. Shields as managing director and Emily Mann as artistic director will inspire our patrons, staff and artists."

Shields has been managing director of Milwaukee Repertory since 1998. During his tenure, The Rep's operating budget more than doubled, while ticket and contributed income reached record levels. Shields is also vice president of the League of Resident Theatres and serves on the board of Theatre Communications Group, Milwaukee's Latino Arts Board and the Cultural Alliance of Greater Milwaukee.

"My decision to accept the position at McCarter Theater represents something of a homecoming, as I worked at McCarter from 1983 to 1992, and most of my family is on the East Coast," Shields explained in a statement. "The opportunity to become managing director of a Tony Award winning regional theatre in such a great location was simply too hard to pass up."

The McCarter Theatre is located at 91 University Place in Princeton, NJ. For more information visit www.mccarter.org.