Lara Smith named Actor’s Express managing director

Actor’s Express announced Tuesday that Dad’s Garage Development Director Lara Smith will take over the theater company’s managing director duties starting Aug. 1. Smith was chosen to replace departing managing director Scott Clodfelter, who’s moving to Chicago.

From the press release:
Lara joined the staff of Dad’s Garage in 2007 where she led development activities and was a catalyst for significant contributed income growth through individual giving, corporate sponsorships, grants and special events. A graduate of the Webster University Leigh Gerdine College of Fine Arts, she holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in Theatrical Stage Management. She worked in stage management for Hope Summer Repertory Theatre and the St. Louis Repertory. She has also worked at the administrative offices of both organizations, as well as the Muny in St. Louis and the Alliance in Atlanta.

Lara served on the Strategic Planning Committee and as Vice Chair of the Artistic Director Search Committee at Dad’s Garage. She was selected for the 2009 class of the Arts Leaders of Metro Atlanta and has served on granting panels for Fulton County Arts Council and Georgia Council for the Arts.

“The productions at Actor’s Express epitomize what theatre is meant to be - they break down boundaries, help us change our world view, excite our emotions, and leave our heads spinning as we connect with those around us that just experienced the same thing,” said Lara.