Writers Theatre Founder To Keep Job, Get 'Compliance Training'

GLENCOE, IL — An investigation into allegations of sexual harassment against the artistic director of the Writers Theatre has concluded, the board of trustees of the Glencoe-based company said Thursday. The board said it hired an independent investigator last month to probe complaints about the theater's co-founder Michael Halberstam. He was fully cooperative with the inquiry, has agreed to undergo "compliance training" and will remain in his present role.

Accusations of misconduct against Halberstam became public Nov. 2, when Tom Robson, a former assistant director at at theater and now an associated professor at Millikin University in Decatur, said in a series of tweets that he was "verbally and physically" sexually harassed throughout rehearsals for a 2003 production of "Crime and Punishment."

The investigation found that Halberstam had "made inappropriate and insensitive comments in the workplace," according to the board's statement. However, "the investigation did not support a finding of other inappropriate sexual behavior."

The board said Halberstam has agreed to immediately begin to "participate in compliance training and executive coaching sessions" as a result of the investigation.

Halberstam, an acclaimed member of the Chicago theater community, has directed close to 40 shows at Writers Theatre and spearheaded the company's move to its present downtown Glencoe location in February 2016.

“I understand that statements and comments I have made have caused distress and discomfort for members of our theater community," Halberstam said in the board's statement, marking his first public comments on the allegations.

"I would like to unequivocally express my sincere and deep regret," said the 51-year-old Englishman. "I welcome and embrace the steps that have been laid out for me by the Board as I am fully committed to addressing this behavior and to making certain that our theatre provides a safe and nurturing atmosphere for everyone.”

» Read more: Writers Theatre Founder Accused Of Sexual Harassment

_{Top photo: Michael Halberstam | Courtesy Jeff Awards | Joe Mazza Photo}