Actors’ Theatre of Columbus will enter its 31st season without Frank Barnhart.

Citing financial considerations, the theater troupe’s board of directors decided to eliminate Barnhart’s position of executive director.

“It was a very difficult decision,” said Carol Mullinax, first vice president of German Village-based Actors’ Theatre. “We don’t have so much overhead that it’s easy to cut.”

The summer season was fraught with poor weather, which hurt attendance, Mullinax said. All performances, held in Schiller Park, are free. During each show’s intermission, representatives of Actors’ Theatre seek contributions from audience members.

Meanwhile, Barnhart said he’s unhappy with the decision.

“I worked there for eight years and I love the organization,” said Barnhart, whose job was part-time. “I’m disappointed they felt they were able to continue on without me.”

Mullinax said the theater company has an annual budget of $138,000, with annual losses of $5,000 to $10,000 projected over the next couple of years. Managing director Jeanne Earhart, the only paid staff member, will remain, as will John S. Kuhn, the artistic director who is paid on a contract basis.

“I do hope they are replacing that position,” said Barnhart, who lives in Clintonville. “Arts is a business, so you do have to have your people in place who do understand the business side, as well.”

Mullinax said Barnhart’s duties are being handled by Earhart and members of the board.

Barnhart, 50, recently accepted a full-time tenure-track position at Columbus State Community College, where he is an instructor in the communications department, with an emphasis on theater.

Kuhn said Barnhart was a real asset to the organization.

“I will miss him,” he said. “He did a great job.”

Kuhn said he hopes Barnhart will return periodically to direct. Barnhart said he would be amenable to the offer, only if circumstances change.

“I would consider it down the road,” he said. “I wouldn’t consider it in the near future, no. I’m very supportive of Actors’ Theater. I’m very supportive of John. Until things change with the current board, I wouldn’t have any interest coming back to the organization as a director.”

In addition to Barnhart’s departure, Actors’ Theatre also has canceled its winter season, which starts in April.

The organization will look for ways to raise additional funds, such as reviving the Madrigal Dinner, slated for 6:30 to 10 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 3, at the Meeting Haus, 588 S. Third St.

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