On Friday, May 10, Mounds View’s theater director, Matthew Van Bruggen, announced in an email to theater families that he would not return for a third year as director.

According to Van Bruggen’s message, he decided not to return last October because he found it challenging to support the theater program while working full-time as the District Performance Facilities Manager.

Principal Robert Reetz confirmed that Van Bruggen informed him of his decision to resign in October.

Reetz explained how Van Bruggen intentionally waited to announce his resignation until after the spring musical Cinderella. “I did want him to be able to lead, and so it didn’t feel like the timing was right to announce before or during Cinderella,” he said.

In an email sent to theater families on Monday, May 13, it was announced that married couple Dan and Colin Perucco would both replace Van Bruggen. According to the email, Dan Perucco has taught English Language Arts (ELA) at Edgewood for ten years, and Colin Perucco has taught ELA at Highview for two years. “We’re looking forward to working together to direct this program. Theater has always been a passion of ours, and we are excited to put our skills to use at MVHS. Between us, we share 12 years of directing experience, 15 years of teaching experience, and a combined 55 years of theater and performing arts experience,” the email said.

“I am confident that the theater program will continue to thrive under the guidance of the talented and passionate staff and advisors who will follow,” said the May 10 message from Van Bruggen.

“I want to express my gratitude for your support and dedication. The memories of our productions, rehearsals, and the laughter shared will forever hold a special place in my heart. It has been an incredible experience,” he added.

Van Bruggen’s decision to resign comes after many theater students expressed their disapproval of his job leading Mounds View Theater and, as reported in issue 7 of The Viewer, the decisions made in casting the spring musical Cinderella.

Van Bruggen declined to comment to The Viewer.