UNITY ARTISTIC DIRECTOR WINS ARTIST OF THE YEAR
The Brazos Valley Arts Council has unanimously selected Unity Theatre’s Executive Artistic Director, Kate Revnell-Smith, as the recipient of the 2015 M.L. Sonny Moss Artist of the Year Award. Revnell-Smith was honored with the award due to her “amazing job of bringing high quality, professional theatre productions to the Brazos Valley while supporting the efforts of performing artists.”
Revnell-Smith has served as Artistic Director at Unity Theatre for four years, having previously acted and directed both at Unity, and in several major Houston theatrical venues including the Houston Shakespeare Festival, Stages Repertory Theatre, and Actors Theatre of Houston. Kate grew up in Lincoln, England and graduated from the American Academy of Dramatic Arts in New York City. After moving to Houston in her twenties, Revnell-Smith first worked as a casting director for film and television and went on to become the Co-Artistic Director of the Actors Theatre of Houston. Kate acted and directed in the Houston area for many years and taught at Chris Wilson’s Studio for Actors.
Unity Theatre Board President John Rollins praised Revnell-Smith’s ability to be both artistic and pragmatic, saying “Kate's unique combination of a lifelong passion for the craft, challenge of and support for the artists and fiscal management abilities provide Unity with vibrant and talented leadership. Her commitment to quality and willingness to challenge the audience and artists provides access to professional theatre in all its forms to this community.” Rollins went on to discuss the innovative ideas and programs Kate has introduced at Unity Theatre. “Expanding from the platform of main stage and studio productions she broadened offerings by an exploding summer drama camp program, including campers in our summer musicals for families, and a series of play reading and discussion gatherings.”
The M.L. Sonny Moss Artist of the Year award is given to ambassadors for the arts in the Brazos Valley, whose work exemplifies Sonny’s passion for sharing high quality artistic experiences with the community. Revnell-Smith will officially accept the award at the Brazos Valley Arts Council’s “Celebrating the Arts” event on September 21st. For more information about the event and the Brazos Valley Arts Council, visit www.acbv.org.