Houghton was recently diagnosed with stomach cancer and said he will be focusing on his health and family.

Under Houghton's leadership, the organization opened the Pershing Square Signature Theatre Center, the largest new theatre center in New York City in nearly 50 years. With a mission to honor and celebrate the playwright, it was the first theatre to dedicate a full season to a living writer's body of work. It has also launched a host of innovative initiatives including residencies and a ticket subsidy program. The Signature won the 2014 Tony Award for outstanding regional theatre.

During his tenure the Signature devoted complete seasons to the works of Lanford Wilson, Romulus Linney, John Guare, Adrienne Kennedy, Sam Shepard, Paula Vogel. Horton Foote, Athol Fugard, Maria Irene Fornes, Bill Irwin and many others.

“It has been a privilege beyond measure to work with the extraordinary writers, artists, staff, trustees, and visionary supporters, past and present, that have all defined Signature with an unparalleled passion and fortitude," Houghton said in a press statement. "I look forward to working with them all over this next year as we move into this next exciting chapter. A bright future lies ahead.” For more information, please visit signaturetheatre.org.