The Merc Playhouse in Twisp announced on Wednesday (Oct. 1) that Missi Smith has been named as the theater’s new executive director.
Smith replaces Jane Hubrig, who had been managing director for six years.
Smith was most recently a book publicist for 45th Parallel Communications in Winthrop, The Merc said in a press release. Previously, she was an English teacher at Liberty Bell High School.
Smith has been involved with The Merc on and off for the past 10 years, the release said, as a choreographer, actor, director and board member. She was the board president during the successful 2012 capital campaign to purchase and renovate The Merc building.
Smith also served as president of the Methow Valley Theater and currently volunteers with First Descents, a nonprofit organization which helps young adult cancer survivors.
“Missi stood out from several strong applicants because she has a demonstrated passion for our organization’s mission, has led nonprofit organizations, and has worked extensively with young people, who we feel are so important to our future,” Sue Gottula, chair of The Merc’s board, said in the release.
Smith will take the helm at The Merc in mid-October. She is responsible for the organization’s strategic planning, fiscal management, fundraising, marketing and facility operations. Smith will report to the board and will work closely with Ki Gottberg, The Merc’s artistic director.
