Steven C. Peterson resigned as executive director of the Maine State Music Theatre, its board announced Monday.

General Manager Stephanie Dupal will oversee operations while trustees undertake a national search for a new leader.

Peterson was named director in 2004 and also served as artistic director for the past two seasons, after the theater’s longtime artistic director, Charles Abbott, retired.

Don Gerrish, president of the Maine State Music Theatre board, said in a news release Peterson “leaves Maine State Music Theatre poised to continue its long history as an important part of Mid-coast Maine’s economic and artistic community.”

“Steve has brought a combined business and artistic leadership that has allowed us to maintain financial stability, and also attract talented theater professionals to Brunswick season after season,” Gerrish said.

Gerrish noted Peterson’s eight-year tenure saw the successful conclusion of a capital campaign for the purchase and renovation of administrative offices in downtown Brunswick, celebration of the organization’s 50th anniversary, and acquisition and expansion of a costume rental business.

Peterson also is an actor who participated in theater productions such as “Hairspray,” in which he played Edna Turnblad during the 2007 season.

“I’ve been mulling it over for a while,” Peterson said. “I turned 55 over the summer, and I’m in that place where I’ve either got one more good jump in me or I’m going to have to settle down in one place.”

After consulting friends and colleagues, he decided to make the leap.

“For the time being I’m going to get back onstage, which is really my first love,” he said.

Peterson is bound for Florida in January, where he will act in a production for three months before rejoining the Fulton Theatre in Lancaster, Pa.

“Once the decision was made, I knew it was the right thing,” he said. “It’s all very positive. It’s time for a transition, and (MSMT) is a good position right now. They just need somebody great to come in and take them to the next level.”