Here’s a roundup of news briefs from around Southwest and Southside. Send yours for possible inclusion to news@cardinalnews.org.
Martinsville theater will use grant for structural renovations
One of Martinsville’s theaters is set to get several upgrades thanks to a recent Harvest Foundation grant.
The $25,000 award to Theatre Works Community Players is part of the Harvest Foundation’s small grants program, one of the agency’s main vehicles for funding smaller projects.
[Disclosure: The Harvest Foundation is one of our donors, but donors have no say in news decisions; see our policy.]
The funds are earmarked for structural renovations to Uptown Martinsville’s Black Box Theatre, including installing an elevator system allowing for easier transport of set pieces to the stage, according to a news release announcing the grant.
The theater has hosted local productions including “A Raisin in the Sun,” “Hairspray” and “Les Miserables.”
Harvest Foundation program officer Sandy Strayer emphasized the importance of the arts.
“I know firsthand the incredible impact theatre can have — not just on individuals, but on entire communities,” Strayer said in the news release.
Tracie Agnew, Theater Works’ co-president agreed, saying the arts can be a source of development.
“Our focus has always been on community engagement and enrichment through theatre,” Agnew said in the release. “For several years, we have strategically planned for more youth involvement in community theatre as well as outreach programs that will encourage participation from underserved populations. Our aim is to attract audiences who will dine out, shop, or stay in the area.”
Currently there are plans to get students more involved in theater.
“For our youth, it’s an opportunity to discover their voices and develop skills that will benefit them for a lifetime,” Strayer said. “For Martinsville and Henry County, this theatre serves as a vital anchor for community revitalization, inspiring pride and meaningful connection through the arts.”
— Dean-Paul Stephens
Mill Mountain Theatre names managing director
Mill Mountain Theatre has named Matt Shields as its new managing director.
Shields, who is currently the Roanoke theater’s director of productions, will replace Ginger Poole, who retires at the end of the month as producing artistic director. She will remain on a consulting contract to ease the transition, according to a news release from the theater.
Poole announced her retirement in January, and the theater embarked on an 11-month nationwide search for her successor. Sixty-five applications were evaluated, according to the release.
Shields has spent years managing complex productions and has demonstrated an “unparalleled
ability to balance the creative and logistical demands of live theatre,” the release said.
“His business insight has been instrumental in optimizing budgets, fostering community partnerships, and ensuring Mill Mountain Theatre remains a vibrant cultural hub for Roanoke and beyond,” Poole said in the release.
Cynthia Lawrence, chair of the search committee, added: “Matt’s unique blend of strategic thinking and production expertise makes him the ideal leader for this next chapter at Mill Mountain Theatre.”
Youngkin announces board appointments
Gov. Glenn Youngkin has announced additional state board appointments, including these residents of Southwest and Southside:
Cotton Board: Joey Doyle of Emporia, owner/operator, Doyle and Doyle Farms.
Board of Coal Mine Safety: Keith Sigmon of Tazewell, general manager, Coronado Global Resources Inc. – Buchanan Mine.
Advisory Board on Genetic Counseling: Lydia Higgs of Roanoke, genetic counselor, Carilion Clinic.
Manufacturing Development Commission: Amy Stinnett White of Botetourt County, dean of STEM and workforce solutions, Virginia Western Community College; member, Botetourt County Board of Supervisors.
Southwest Virginia Energy Research and Development Authority: Kristen Westover of Lee County, president, Mountain Empire Community College.
Board for Contractors: Mary Anne Holbrook of Bristol, vice president of development, EO Companies.