The Silver Spring Stage Board of Directors has appointed Silver Spring native Shaquille Stewart as the company’s new executive director, as the Stage pushes forward with its recovery post-pandemic challenges and unexpected facility repair costs.
Stewart, a Montgomery College theatre program graduate, brings a wealth of experience as an actor, technician, administrator, director, and teacher from various theatres across the Baltimore-Washington region. His diverse background has equipped him with a deep appreciation for stagecraft and a holistic understanding of theatre operations.
“Theatre spaces are more important now than ever,” Stewart said. “Over the last few years, I have made it my business to persevere in this industry, and to prioritize the voices of all who take part.”
For Stewart, coming back to Silver Spring Stage is more than just a professional commitment; it holds significant personal meaning. His theatrical journey began with the Stage in 2015 while working on the run crew for Steven Dietz’s Private Eyes. He later graced the Stage in productions like Every Christmas Story Ever Told (And Then Some!) in 2015 and A Bright New Boise by Samuel D. Hunter in 2017.
“Being appointed as executive director at the Stage is a full-circle, cathartic moment in my journey,” Stewart said. “As executive director, my main goal is to uphold community-created art and ensure the Stage remains an accessible hub for the transformative power of live theatre.”
Established in 1968 and formally incorporated in 1970, Silver Spring Stage aims to spark dialogue and illuminate narratives that might otherwise go unheard. As a community theatre, their mission is to showcase top-tier contemporary performances that resonate with the diverse Silver Spring community, drawing in fresh audiences and artists.
Silver Spring Stage graphic