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The Miller Theater announced yesterday that its ebullient executive director, George Steel, is leaving. To become general director of the Dallas Opera.

Huh?

I must admit, this one left me scratching my head. Maybe he was drawn in by the chance to inaugurate a state-of-the-art facility (the opera moves to its new home in fall of ‘09). Maybe Dallas lured him with promises that he could have free rein to revitalize its programming. Maybe he’s just a Texas boy at heart.

“This is going to be a tremendous move for me – in every sense,” says Mr. Steel in the release. “I have family connections in Dallas as far back as the 19th century, so, coming to Dallas is something of a spiritual return. Yet in many ways, Dallas will be a ‘Brave New World.’ The challenge to build a 21st century opera company equal to its remarkable new venue proved impossible to resist – I can’t wait to begin.”

From budget sizes to artistic sensibilities, the two organizations are a study in opposites. The Miller is a great little theater that, under Steel’s leadership, has become a vibrant center for adventurous music - it’s kicking off its 20th season next month with a hugely ambitious production of Iannis Xenakis’ “Oresteia,” which Steel was instrumental in bringing about. Will he even be around to see it? He starts in Dallas on October 1. First up there? “The Marriage of Figaro.”

The Miller’s general manager, Melissa Smey, will serve as acting director while the theater searches for his replacement. Here’s hoping that person follows in Steel’s footsteps. He made the Miller a place worth being excited about, and his galvanizing presence will be missed.