Provided by Fauquier Community Theatre
FCT Co-Executive Directors Clark and Smyers
The board of directors of Fauquier Community Theatre (FCT), welcomes Debra H. Smyers in the new job position of co-executive director, alongside current executive director Christie Clark. At the recent 40th Anniversary Gala at the Inn at Vint Hill, Smyers was introduced to many of the theater’s board members and longtime members of FCT. Smyers volunteered her time on the year-long gala committee and will begin employment with FCT on May 1, 2018.
Clark remarked, “I am thrilled to begin working with Debra as we expand the visibility, increase productivity, and celebrate the arts at Fauquier Community Theatre. My job has expanded over the years; I welcome Smyers’s work ethic, experience, and creativity.” With enthusiasm and already in duet mode style, Smyers adds, “Christie and I have worked together on several projects throughout the years and have great energy. I admire her dedication and success in being instrumental for the growth of FCT and outstanding community engagement.”
Smyers holds a Masters of Arts in Arts Management from George Mason University and is an
adjunct professor teaching Grant Writing in the Arts. Having over 14 years experience in arts
management including as an executive director, Smyers was named a successful business “Woman to Watch” in the Piedmont Business Journal. Her previous theater experience in the Arts includes acting, directing, and producing. She is a SAG-AFTRA union actress in film and television.
The structure of having co-executive directors is fairly new and follows a hybrid model for not-for-profits. Shared leadership is exponentially beneficial to the organization and also offers the
opportunity for a better work-life balance for leaders. Clark and Smyers will both be part-time
employees. Clark has worked for FCT for almost 10 years, first as public relations manager and
then as executive director.
Founded in 1978, Fauquier Community Theatre enriches and entertains a range of audiences
through a variety of live theatre productions that enhance the cultural life of the community. FCT
offers a range of challenging creative opportunities that inspire people of all ages and backgrounds to participate in theater. For more information about FCT and the many ways to be involved, visit fctstage.org.
