Former Treasurer Accused of Embezzling Funds From Washington Community Theatre

According to WPXI, Washington Community Theatre, has canceled its 2026 season following allegations that its former treasurer misappropriated tens of thousands of dollars from the organization.

Police say Andrew Mours, 35, turned himself in at a magistrate’s office. Investigators allege he took more than $40,000 from the theatre between May and December 2025, using the funds for personal expenses, including gambling.

The financial impact has forced the theatre to suspend its planned programming for the year, including productions of Legally Blonde at Washington Park this summer and The Full Monty at 19 North Main in November.

Authorities also allege that Mours diverted nearly $15,000 from another local nonprofit, Teetotal Initiative, which supports individuals in sobriety and recovery. The organization stated that it removed him from its board and revoked his access to financial accounts upon discovering the issue. It has since engaged legal counsel and implemented additional financial controls, including third-party bookkeeping oversight.

In response to the setback, Washington Community Theatre is shifting its focus to recovery efforts. The company plans to host a dinner theatre fundraiser at Washington Park on June 26 and 27, with additional fundraising events scheduled in collaboration with Hickory’s Old Schoolhouse Players in August and 19 North on Main in November. The goal is to generate support for a return to full programming in 2027.

The theatre’s board said community support has been strong and emphasized its commitment to transparency and rebuilding as it works toward resuming operations.