Festival Announces New Educations Programs Manager
By Katie Neves, guest writer
The Utah Shakespeare Festival is excited to introduce Sophia Grzywacz as the new Education Programs Manager. Her passion for theater and dedication to education will bring fresh energy and ideas to the Festival and its patrons.
Originally from Las Vegas, Grzywacz moved to Cedar City to attend Southern Utah University. She graduated this past April with a Bachelors in Business Management and Accounting and is looking forward to stepping into her new role with the Festival. While at SUU, she worked as an event coordinator for the university’s speaker series, Eccles APEX; she also spent the last two summers working at the Festival in Company Management. “We are thrilled to be welcoming Sophia to the department,” said Education Director Stewart Shelley. “Having an additional full-time member of our team will help us to continue the incredible legacy built by former Education Director (now Executive Managing Director) Michael Bahr.”
Grzywacz’s experience goes beyond management and coordination; she has a long history of education and the arts. She worked as a counselor at youth summer camps for several years, and has developed a lifelong love of theatre. She has fond memories of playing Eliza Doolittle in My Fair Lady and Wendy in Peter Pan in her middle and high school years. “When I was a child, theatre was a way for me to express myself. It helped me deal with the awkward life changes and find ways to compose and express myself amidst the chaos,” said Grzywacz. “I love what it did for me, and I love watching students come here each week and seeing the same impact it has on their lives.”
As the Education Programs Manager, Grzywacz will oversee and orchestrate the actor training camps, help coordinate and hire adjudicators for the annual High School Shakespeare Competition, and set up various partnerships and talkbacks that correspond with the Festival’s mainstage productions, among other things. “I am really excited to give back to the community that has given so much to me,” said Grzywacz. “I jumped into the craziness of this season and I love every single second! I truly am continually amazed by the actors, students, and community, and our Education Director Stewart Shelley. They go above and beyond, and are truly here for the patrons.”
Grzywacz is dedicated to fostering an environment of development and learning, ensuring that the Education Department continues to thrive. “She is incredibly organized, thoughtful, and approaches challenges methodically and creatively,” said Artistic Director John DiAntonio. “Sophia’s exemplary leadership qualities and exceptional interpersonal skills with colleagues, stakeholders, and external partners will be a huge asset.”
With her accomplished background and deep commitment to arts and education, Sophia Grzywacz is poised to make a significant impact. The Festival is excited to see the innovative programs and inspiring leadership she brings to her new role.
