Former artistic director files lawsuit against Rochester Civic Theater

The Rochester Civic Theater is being sued by its former artistic director.

In a complaint filed in early August, Gregory Miller contends that he was wrongfully terminated and he is now seeking at least $50,000 in damages.

Miller said his position was cut so the theater could save money on health care benefits.

In the complaint, Miller said that he has a son with a chronic illness which has required him to rely heavily on those benefits in recent years.

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Miller's complaint also states that the board was not receptive to his reports of sexual harassment within the theater. A Minnesota Public Radio investigation found that previous board members were unsuccessful in curbing inappropriate sexual advances by former executive director Gregory Stavrou.

In a statement, theater board director Kay Hocker said that the theater stands by its decision to eliminate Miller's position and is prepared to seek the dismissal of Miller's claims in court.

"The Rochester Civic Theatre's focus is ahead, as it looks forward to its upcoming season and thanks its patrons for their support," Hocker said in the statement. "We have a very positive season and future and are focusing on that."

Hocker is also a regional manager for Minnesota Public Radio based in Rochester.