# Chicago Shakespeare Theater chief Kimberly Motes to step down

> Chicago Shakespeare Theater's Kimberly Motes steps down as executive director to become Hennepin Arts CEO.
- Title: Chicago Shakespeare Theater chief Kimberly Motes to step down
- Summary: Chicago Shakespeare Theater's Kimberly Motes steps down as executive director to become Hennepin Arts CEO. Kimberly Motes will step down as Chicago…
- Keywords: kimberly motes, chicago shakespeare theater, hennepin arts, minneapolis, executive director, nfl, news, local, Chicago, Shakespeare, Theater, chief
- Source: Chicago Sun-Times — https://chicago.suntimes.com/theater/2026/10/22/chicago-shakespeare-theater-kimberly-motes-stepping-down
- Published: 2026-10-22T19:49:19.74+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: kimberly motes, chicago shakespeare theater, hennepin arts, minneapolis, executive director, nfl, news, local
## Kimberly Motes stepping down
Kimberly Motes will step down as Chicago Shakespeare Theater executive director in November.
## New role in Minneapolis
Motes will become President and CEO of Hennepin Arts in her hometown of Minneapolis.
## Three years at theater
Motes worked with Artistic Director Edward Hall to produce 35 plays and musicals.
## Notable achievements
She fostered commercial partnerships giving Chicago Shakes co-production credits on major productions.
## Chicago community focus
Motes aimed to reflect Chicago’s 77 neighborhoods in the theater’s programming.
## 2026-2027 season highlights
The season opens with Play on! and features February remount of Illinoise.
## New productions
The theater will stage Heartbreakers, a Pat Benatar-backed Romeo and Juliet adaptation.
## Repertory staging
Starting this month, the theater initiates first repertory staging with The Winter’s Tale and A Midsummer Night’s Dream.
## Next steps
Artistic Director Edward Hall will lead the company with senior staff for 40th season.
## What happens next
The theater’s 40th season continues as planned with Hall heading the organization.
## Key takeaway

Kimberly Motes will step down as Chicago Shakespeare Theater executive director in November to become President and CEO of Hennepin Arts in Minneapolis.