New London Barn Playhouse Names Ty Simons Director of Education & Community Engagement

The New London Barn Playhouse has announced the hiring of Ty Simons as its new Director of Education and Community Engagement, bringing a dynamic blend of artistic excellence, educational leadership, and a passion for community-centered theatre-making to the organization.

Simons is an ACTF Region IV award-winning director and a graduate of the University of Central Florida, where he earned his MFA in Theatre for Young Audiences and a BA in Theatre Studies with a minor in Education. His professional background spans directing, dramaturgy, teaching artistry, and new play development, reflecting a deep commitment to cultivating meaningful theatrical experiences for artists of all ages.

He previously served as an Artistic Associate with Theatre UCF and has collaborated with organizations including Orlando Family Stage and Orlando Shakes. His recent credits include Goosebumps The Musical: Phantom of the Auditorium (Associate Director), A Christmas Carol (Assistant Director and Dramaturg), and The Facts Are As Follows (Dramaturg). At Theatre UCF, he co-directed The River Bride and The Last Firefly, and contributed as Associate Director on Rhinoceros and Dance Night as part of Pegasus PlayLab.

Simons' approach to theatre education is rooted in the belief that storytelling is a powerful tool for fostering empathy, curiosity, and connection. He is dedicated to creating student-centered, process-driven environments where experimentation and collaboration take precedence, encouraging young artists to take risks and discover their unique voices.

"Ty is exactly the kind of artist-educator we've been looking for: someone who understands that the work we do with people isn't separate from our artistic mission, it is our artistic mission," said Executive Artistic Director Keith Coughlin. "His depth of training, his collaborative spirit, and his genuine belief in the transformative power of theatre make him a perfect fit for the Barn family. I can't wait to see what he builds here."

Managing Director Elliott Cunningham said, "His commitment to empowering students and adult learners while building community through the arts will have a lasting impact on our education programs here at the Barn Playhouse."

Throughout his work, Simons emphasizes collaborative creation, encouraging artists to engage with material that challenges perspectives and sparks meaningful dialogue. By connecting performance to real-world issues, he fosters spaces where students can deepen their understanding of themselves and others while developing as confident storytellers.

"I'm honored to join the New London Barn Playhouse and contribute to its vibrant artistic community," said Simons. "I believe theatre has the power to transform and connect us, and I look forward to working with students to create bold, imaginative, and inclusive work together."

In his role as Director of Education and Community Engagement, Simons will oversee the Playhouse's educational programming, including student productions, camps, and outreach initiatives, further strengthening its commitment to arts education in the region.

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