Leadership shifts have been a defining theme at The Walt Disney Company in recent years, and September has brought another chapter in that story.
After more than two decades as Chief Creative Officer and President of Disney Theatrical Group, Thomas Schumacher will step down. His career with the company began when he was hired to produce The Rescuers Down Under (1990). Since then, Schumacher has overseen a period of remarkable growth for Disney on stage.
Variety confirmed the news earlier this week, citing a company memo from Disney Entertainment Co-Chair Alan Bergman. In it, Bergman explained that Schumacher will pass his leadership to Andrew Flatt and Anne Quart while continuing to serve as a consultant during the transition.
“After his Disney exit, Schumacher ‘will continue shaping the face of the global theatrical landscape as a behind-the-scenes force focused on the next generation of artists and audiences,'” Bergman wrote, per Variety.
Schumacher’s impact can be seen in Disney on Ice, in the introduction of sensory-friendly Broadway performances, and in the creation of programs that empower schools to stage Disney musicals. His leadership also played an important part in Broadway’s return following the pandemic shutdown.
“[He] has grown Disney on Ice, pioneered sensory-friendly Broadway shows, and developed an expansive program to enable schools to produce Disney musicals on their own stages,” Bergman noted in Variety’s coverage. “He has been a tireless supporter, advocate, and leader of the theatre community, playing a key role in turning Broadway’s lights back on during the unprecedented pandemic shutdown. It’s a truly remarkable record.”
Disney Theatrical Group remains the force behind productions such as Beauty and the Beast, Aladdin, and the enduring Broadway hit The Lion King.
While Schumacher’s chapter at Disney is drawing to a close, speculation continues about the company’s broader leadership future. Bob Chapek, who guided Disney through the pandemic years, left his role as CEO in late 2022, with Bob Iger returning to the position. Iger is expected to remain through 2026, though the board has indicated a successor could be announced in the near future.
Among those most often mentioned are Disney Experiences Chairman Josh D’Amaro and Disney Entertainment Co-Chairs Dana Walden and Alan Bergman.
With Schumacher stepping aside and a CEO succession announcement on the horizon, The Walt Disney Company is preparing for its next era of leadership while continuing its legacy of storytelling across film, television, and the stage.
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