The Walt Disney Company has seen notable changes in its leadership over the last several years, and this month marks another transition in its creative ranks.
Variety has reported that Thomas Schumacher, who has led Disney Theatrical Group as President and Chief Creative Officer since 2001, is stepping down. In a memo to employees, Disney Entertainment Co-Chair Alan Bergman confirmed Schumacher will hand over his responsibilities to Andrew Flatt and Anne Quart.
“After his Disney exit, Schumacher ‘will continue shaping the face of the global theatrical landscape as a behind-the-scenes force focused on the next generation of artists and audiences,'” Bergman wrote in the statement, as quoted by Variety. “He’ll also work as a consultant for [Disney Theatrical Group] in the wake of the transition.”
Schumacher’s journey with the company began when he was hired to produce The Rescuers Down Under (1990). His career since then has been filled with milestones, including the expansion of Disney on Ice, the introduction of sensory-friendly Broadway performances, and the development of school programs that bring Disney musicals to student stages around the world.
“[He] has grown Disney on Ice, pioneered sensory-friendly Broadway shows, and developed an expansive program to enable schools to produce Disney musicals on their own stages,” Bergman shared with Variety. “He has been a tireless supporter, advocate, and leader of the theatre community, playing a key role in turning Broadway’s lights back on during the unprecedented pandemic shutdown. It’s a truly remarkable record.”
Disney Theatrical Group continues to be home to Broadway favorites, including Beauty and the Beast, Aladdin, and The Lion King, which remains one of the longest-running shows in Broadway history.
This announcement arrives at a time when Disney’s executive leadership has already been under close watch. Bob Chapek, who took the company through the pandemic era, was succeeded in late 2022 by former CEO Bob Iger. Iger has been leading The Walt Disney Company since then, but the Disney board has shared that a successor may be named as early as the coming months, with a transition expected in 2026.
Speculation continues as to who might step into that role. Disney Experiences Chairman Josh D’Amaro is seen as a leading candidate, with Disney Entertainment Co-Chairs Dana Walden and Alan Bergman also noted as strong possibilities.
Schumacher’s departure may be the latest example of Disney’s evolving leadership landscape, but his influence on theatrical storytelling is sure to remain.
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