BDACT Names New Managing Director
Beaver Dam Native David Alan Smith Returns from California
After a two-month national search, the Beaver Dam Area Community Theatre (BDACT) named David Alan Smith as the new managing director. Born and raised in Beaver Dam, Smith got his theatrical start at a young age as part of BDACT’s very first Tell-A-Tale productions. A distinguished University of Minnesota theatre alumnus, Smith’s career in community and professional theater includes working with companies in Wisconsin, Minnesota, and California.
“The Search Committee undertook a very intensive nationwide effort to secure an exceptional candidate that can help BDACT continue to grow and thrive to serve our region” noted Mike Derr, President of the BDACT Board of Directors. “David not only has extensive experience in the many facets of theatre operations but a solid connection to the success of our programming. Moreover, we were extremely impressed with David’s vibrant personality and level of confidence. We’re very optimistic that he will be the charismatic leader that we’re seeking as BDACT continues moving forward.”
After getting his start on the BDACT stage, Smith performed in middle and high school productions, before earning a Bachelor of Arts degree in Theatre Arts at the University of Minnesota. There he was nominated for the Irene Ryan National Acting Award and was named to the Alumni of Notable Achievement program. His professional experience includes serving as a member of the senior staff at the Palmdale Playhouse, and President of the Board of Directors for Cedar Street Theatre in Lancaster, California. Smith’s credits include teaching, marketing, stage management, stage tech, fundraising, public speaking, and many hours volunteering for community causes.
“I’m excited to return to Beaver Dam as part of the leadership at BDACT,” said Smith. “The board, staff, and volunteers have invested great energy and imagination to grow and expand BDACT to a valuable component of the community. I look forward to continuing that momentum and helping to fulfill the theatre’s mission to present enriching and inspirational performing arts and fostering an inclusive environment to support education, connections, and quality entertainment.”
Smith began his role on Monday, January 10, 2022, and is working closely with Volunteer Coordinator Kim Doyle, who served as Interim Managing Director. The theatre continues to ramp up its schedule, including make-up dates for shows postponed because of the pandemic and adding new in-person performances. Visit https://bdact.org/shows-events/ to see the current schedule.