The director of the C. L. Hoover Opera House is resigning at the end of the year.

Mary Louise Stahl has submitted her resignation, effective December 31.

Stahl said in August of next year the LP Management Board that was the limited liability partnership established when the Opera House opened goes away.  The Opera House will then become a full 501-C3 nonprofit organization at that time. Stahl noted it’s never been her goal to stay forever. “I think they need to bring on board the person who has the skill to do the kind of fundraising and program development that’s necessary for a 501-C3. ” Stahl added, “It was just time to pass the baton to the next energetic runner.”

Stahl has served as the Director of the Opera House since October of 2011. She said will continue to be involved with the Opera House.

During her time in the director’s post there have been some good accomplishments. “I think that one of the things that is different than when I came in is the range of classes that we offer at the Opera House.  We’re not strictly a performance venue, bringing in shows for the evening. But we have things offered throughout the day for all age groups.”

Stahl noted a “crowning glory” for her is to have all of the fine arts agencies under one roof. “That doesn’t mean that everything’s perfect yet, but we have the opportunity now to move forward.

Stahl also praised the display of the Rolfs art collection within the building “as magnificent.”