KITTY HAWK - Theatre of Dare is stepping boldly into its next act with the appointment of Kelsey Thompson as Executive Director, marking an exciting new chapter for the Outer Banks’ long-running community theatre.

 

Thompson has already played an important role behind the scenes, tirelessly serving Theatre of Dare as its part-time Business Director and helping guide the organization through a period of tremendous growth. Since opening its permanent home in Kitty Hawk in 2022, Theatre attendance has grown from 1,657 patrons to more than 8,200 today. In the most recent season, the Theatre sold 6,876 tickets and presented 53 performances, including 21 sold-out shows. More than 75 active volunteers contributed over 10,000 hours, while 54 actors took the stage, reflecting the growing engagement of the Theatre’s performers, volunteers, and audiences.

 

Thompson has played an important role in building the organizational foundation behind that growth. Her work as the Business Director has helped strengthen Theatre of Dare’s operations and its approach to production, audience development, fundraising, and community engagement. The Theatre has also expanded its partnerships with local nonprofits and, through six productions, raised $10,235 in 50/50 raffle proceeds that helped provide $9,000 in scholarships to four Dare County students. As a full-time Executive Director, Thompson will build on this momentum and help guide Theatre of Dare into its next chapter.

 

The move reflects the Board’s commitment to investing in Theatre of Dare’s continued growth while providing dedicated leadership for the organization’s ongoing operations and development. “Kelsey has already given so much of herself to Theatre of Dare, and the impact of her work can be felt throughout the organization,” said Lara Parks, President of the Theatre of Dare Board of Directors. “Moving her into the Executive Director position gives her the opportunity to focus fully on the work she has already been doing so well, while helping us dream even bigger about what Theatre of Dare can become. We are incredibly excited to have her leading us into this next chapter.”

 

The appointment comes as Theatre of Dare prepares to launch its 36th season, with a diverse lineup of productions designed to offer something for nearly every taste and age. From comedy and drama to music, family-friendly fare, and a few delightfully offbeat surprises, the season reflects Theatre of Dare’s continued commitment to bringing a wide variety of live performance experiences to the Outer Banks community.

 

And, as any good theatre company knows, there is no time for a long intermission.

 

Theatre of Dare’s new season raises the curtain with “Happy Birthday, Wanda June,” opening September 18. Tickets are now on sale, with plenty more waiting in the wings throughout the season.