Michael D. Mitchell, 67, the artistic director of the Fulton Theatre since 1999, died at his home Sunday night following a battle with cancer.
In his tenure at the landmark theater, Mitchell, a native of Oklahoma, commissioned a number of new plays and helped turn the Fulton into a financially thriving and artistically successful theater.
"He died surrounded by people he loved. He went very peacefully," said Fulton spokesman Tom Kirkpatrick.
Mitchell, who had directed the Fulton's current production of "Oklahoma!" had a long career with theater throughout the country. He came to the Fulton from Arizona, where he'd been the artistic director of the Phoenix Theatre.
This past February, Mitchell was told he had terminal cancer.
But then, just a few days later, doctors told him he had carcinoid cancer, which is slow growing and he could possibly survive. Unfortunately, he did not respond well to the treatment.
Mitchell talked about his reprieve in an article in the New Era in May, saying, "I am a lucky guy. I've had a rich and gratifying life.
"Everyone goes through (death) it. "I've had a wonderful life. I've been able to express who I am through my work. I've traveled a lot, I have great friends."
He also praised the Lancaster community, saying "I've learned that you are not alone, literally, spiritually or metaphorically."
Mitchell said the one show he wanted to do that he had never done was "Oklahoma!"
He got his wish.
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