The board of directors of Invictus Theatre told the Tribune late Monday that the theater company was postponing its February production of “Cat on a Hot Tin Roof” and that the company’s founder and artistic director, Charles Askenaizer, was stepping away pending a third-party investigation int o his conduct.  All of the theater’s classes have also been canceled. Allegations had emerged on social media of aggressive behavior within the rehearsal process of shows. Askenaizer could not immediately be reached for comment. “The board of directors of Invictus Theatre is aware of online allegations regarding Charles Askenaizer in his role as Artistic Director,” the prepared statement read. “We are taking these concerns about the fair and respectful treatment of our theatre cast and staff seriously. The board is engaging a third-party investigator to conduct an independent analysis and, based on the findings, advise on appropriate next steps.” The statement further said that Askenaizer (who is a board member himself) was stepping away in the best interests of the theater and “to allow this investigation to proceed without distraction.” Invictus, which performs at the former Windy City Playhouse on Irving Park Road, had been on a roll with a widely acclaimed production last summer of “Angels in America” that was extended several times. The theater also said that class fees and ticket purchases will be automatically refunded to students and patrons within the next seven to 10 days. Chris Jones is a Tribune critic ([email protected]) ...read more read less