Connecticut theatre director accused of sexual misconduct

NEW HAVEN, Conn. – A Connecticut theatre’s artistic director is on administrative leave due to allegations of sexual misconduct.

Long Wharf Theatre board chair Laura Pappano says she placed Gordon Edelstein on leave Monday following a report by The New York Times.

The newspaper says it interviewed four women on the record who alleged unwanted sexual contact by Edelstein since his arrival in 2002, including one who complained to theatre management in 2006. Other former employees alleged the prominent director made sexually explicit remarks at the New Haven theatre.

Pappano says they knew of no instance in which a complaint was filed and not dealt with. She says many accusations detailed by the newspaper weren’t previously reported.

Edelstein didn’t immediately return messages seeking comment.