The Kentucky Shakespeare board of directors released a statement this afternoon stating that CEO and producing artistic director Brantley Dunaway has resigned. Dunaway has been on paid administrative leave since last Thursday, when we reported that Madison Dunaway, his wife of eight years and Kentucky Shakespeare co-worker, had requested and received an emergency protective order against him Monday evening. Madison, an actor under contract with Kentucky Shakespeare to play the role of Viola in "Twelfth Night," resigned Monday night after receiving the protective order. The production closed the next day. Here's the full statement: Brantley Dunaway has resigned as Producing Artistic Director effective immediately. The Board of Directors will move immediately to identify an Interim Producing Artistic Director and begin the process of selecting a permanent PAD. The stability of this landmark organization is of the utmost importance and every action possible is being taken to address our current situation. We are working with legal counsel to determine our obligations and look forward to doing everything we can to strengthen Kentucky Shakespeare.Dunaway released a statement through the board this evening: It is with great sadness that I announce my resignation as Producing Artistic Director of the Kentucky Shakespeare Festival. After discussions with the Board of Directors, I have decided that this is the best decision for the organization and the community given recent circumstances. I am extremely proud of what has been accomplished over the last four years and truly thank the board, staff, actors, donors and patrons. I wish the Kentucky Shakespeare Festival continued success./em>This story will be updated.
