Florentine Opera says Florescu resigned because of sexual misconduct

Milwaukee Journal Sentinel

Florentine Opera general director William Florescu resigned from that position in May 2018.

William Florescu's resignation as Florentine Opera general director was related to "violation of the Florentine Opera’s policies and prohibitions concerning sexual misconduct," the Florentine said in a statement released Thursday.

In response to an email request for an interview, Florescu wrote "I am working through things with my family at this time, after this impactful change in my life."

Florescu resigned abruptly on May 9, during final preparations for the Florentine's production of "The Magic Flute."

"I stepped away from the position for personal reasons," Florescu wrote in a brief email message at that time. "I am processing all of this with my family right now, and don't have any further comment."

At that time, the Florentine offered no explanation for the resignation. However, since May 9, the Florentine said it has "received information previously unknown to the company regarding Mr. Florescu’s conduct in the workplace."

"We feel that greater transparency is critical in order to move forward with promoting the positive work culture that we expect," the Florentine stated.

Raechell Thuot, the Florentine board's official spokeswoman, said she could not provide any more information about the resignation. But she emphasized that an environment where employees and artists could safely collaborate was essential.

As the Florentine searches for a new leader, Eric Lind is serving as interim managing director and artistic staff members Lisa Kay Hanson and Noelle Stollmack are providing artistic leadership, Thuot said.

In 2016, the Florentine extended Florescu's contract through 2024.

Florescu was named Florentine Opera general director in 2005, coming to Milwaukee from a similar post at the Lake George Opera in Saratoga Springs, N.Y. His tenure as the Florentine's leader included world-premiere productions of "Rio de Sangre" (in Spanish) and "Sister Carrie."