Introducing the New Executive Director

The new Executive Director, William Henry, Jr.,  joins Germantown Community Theatre with a wealth of experience in nonprofit leadership and arts administration. William served as the Box Office Manager for Memphis Botanic Garden and Radians Amphitheater where he oversaw the patron-facing and backend management functions of event management and ticket sales, and assisted in facilitating sponsorships.  Prior to his work at Memphis Botanic Garden, William served as the Patron Services Manager for North Carolina Theatre, a professional presenting and producing theatre company in Raleigh, North Carolina, where he was responsible for creating and ensuring exceptional patron experiences, with a special emphasis on equity and accessibility. Previous to his work at North Carolina Theatre, William spent three years as a high school theatre teacher for White Station High school where he taught classes in theatre appreciation, acting, and play production. William earned his BFA in Theatre Performance from the University of Memphis and a Master of Arts in Arts Administration from Indiana University.

Known for his commitment to community engagement, William has a proven track record of fostering growth and collaboration. Under his stewardship, GCT aims to strengthen its ties with the Germantown community, expand its outreach programs, and secure the resources needed to carry the organization into a flourishing future.

Welcoming a New Artistic Director

GCT is equally delighted to announce the appointment of Rachel Crenshaw as Artistic Director. Since October 2024, Rachel has been the Production Manager of GCT facilitating all artistic aspects for Season 53 including executive producing:  Through the Looking Screen, Twelve Angry Jurors, and Cabaret.  Rachel has been on the artistic staff of over 80 productions in the Memphis and Germantown areas and she studied Graphic Design and Photography at Mississippi State University.

With an impressive background in theatre stage management, artistic design, production, and education, Rachel brings an innovative perspective and collaborative spirit to the theatre’s creative programming. Her passion for theatre and dedication to cultivating local talent will help enrich the artistic offerings that Germantown Community Theatre is known for.

Congratulations to Rachel Crenshaw on her promotion.

A Vision for the Future

With these dynamic leaders at the helm, Germantown Community Theatre is excited to begin work on Season 54, our upcoming season filled with diverse performances, educational workshops, and community engagement initiatives. Both William and Rachel are committed to making the theatre a welcoming space where imagination thrives and connections are forged.

To learn more about Season 54, visit our website at https://www.gctcomeplay.org/season-54-announcement/

About Germantown Community Theatre

Germantown Community Theatre is a non‐profit 501(c)(3) organization set in an intimate 98‐seat theatre located at 3037 Forest Hill‐Irene Rd. GCT provides both theatrical entertainment and educational opportunities for Midsouth families in an environment that nurtures creative expression and artistic growth. Our mission is to entertain, educate, engage, and enrich the community through theatrical programming.

Now producing our 53rd season, GCT has been a part of the Midsouth performing arts scene since 1972.  Originally located in a chapel at St. George’s church, GCT got its start thanks to The Germantown Women’s Club. We moved to our current location in 1986.

In support of our mission, we are committed to fostering an inclusive culture that values and embraces an environment where equity, diversity and inclusion are anchors of our staff, artist, volunteer, and patron experience. We strive to ensure each person, now and in the future, is included and celebrated for who they are. At Germantown Community Theatre we champion pathways, culture, and practices that build an environment where all theatre stakeholders feel empowered to contribute their unique talents, skills, and abilities to the betterment of the local theatrical community.

The Box Office can be reached at 901.453.7447.

For press inquiries, interviews, or additional details, please contact:

• Robyn Sharp, President Board of Directors
• P.Sharp@gmail.com
• 901-356-1759