The artistic director of the Actors Theatre of Louisville is stepping down at the end of the season.

Les Waters, who has served as artistic director for six seasons, will depart next summer to pursue personal projects, according to a press release sent Wednesday. A new artistic director will be chosen with the help of a firm that will be announced shortly.

"Actors Theatre is the cornerstone of new American theatre, and I look forward to returning as both a guest artist and visitor to experience its continuing artistic excellence and growth," Waters wrote.

Waters has produced 78 plays and directed 18 in Louisville during his six seasons at the helm. His leadership "invigorated" the Humana Festival of New American Plays, according to the release from Actors Theatre, and plays debuted at the festival were seen across the country.

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Waters also worked to diversify programming and artists during his time in Louisville, the release adds. He will still select programming for the 2018-2019 season and the lineup is set to be announced in February 2018.

Kevin E. Moore, the managing director, wrote that Waters' local and national artistic impact is "immeasurable."

"He has introduced an exciting and diverse array of new plays into the American repertoire," Moore wrote. "Les's dedication to developing artists has changed the way Actors Theatre produces, deepening collaborative efforts throughout the organization."

Actors Theatre, the flagship arts organization in the Louisville community, is in its 54th season and presents nearly 350 performances annually.

Board president Elizabeth Rounsavall wished Waters, who she called an "innovative leader," the best as he pursed new artistic adventures.

"Thanks to his efforts, we are leaders in our field and are grateful to him for his influence locally, nationally and internationally."

Reach reporter Darcy Costello at dcostello@courier-journal.com or 502-582-4834.