#107 How Theater Builds Community and Connection with Davina Gazo Stampfel

In this episode of Thinking That Matters, I had the pleasure of chatting with Davina Gazo Stampfel, executive director of McKinney Repertory Theater (MRT) and a passionate advocate for the arts. As a fellow member of Leadership McKinney’s Class of 2025, I was excited to dive into how theater isn’t just about performing—it’s about building connections, fostering empathy, and transforming lives.

Davina’s love for theater started when she was a kid, putting on puppet shows and writing stories. With her mom’s encouragement, she auditioned for Alice in Wonderland in eighth grade—and landed the lead role! That moment sparked a lifelong passion. While she tried professional acting, she found her true home in community theater, where it’s all about collaboration and support.

She shared how MRT is powered by volunteers, from selecting productions to engaging audiences through fun awards. When she moved to Texas and was pregnant, the theater community became her lifeline, showing just how powerful the arts can be in creating real connections.

Beyond the stage, Davina talked about how theater teaches empathy and why storytelling matters. She also gave a fresh perspective on nonprofits—seeing other organizations as collaborators, not competitors—leading to amazing initiatives like student tickets and programs for seniors.

Key topics discussed:

• How community theater brings people together

• The impact of COVID-19 on local arts organizations

• Finding confidence and passion through theater

• Why empathy in storytelling makes a difference in everyday life

Don't miss MRT's FREE student ticket show, 12 Angry Jurors! Sponsored by H-E-B, this gripping performance will be in March. Spread the word and make sure students get their tickets to this must-see event!

 

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More about Davina:

Davina Gazo Stampfel is the Executive Director of McKinney Repertory Theatre (MRT), McKinney’s nonprofit community theater based at the McKinney Performing Arts Center. Since moving to Texas in 2019, she has been deeply involved in the local arts scene, starting as an actor in MRT’s A Christmas Carol and eventually taking on a leadership role.

Beyond theater, Davina serves on the Board of Directors for Chestnut Square Heritage Village, organizes McKinney Creative Community, and is part of Leadership McKinney’s Class of 2025. She’s also an active member of the McKinney Historic Neighborhood Association and Power In Numbers (PIN).

Before MRT, Davina spent 17 years leading award-winning content marketing campaigns for brands like Bank of America, Google, Microsoft, and top recording artists, including Rihanna, Mariah Carey, and The Killers. When she’s not immersed in the arts, she enjoys time with her husband and four-year-old son.

Connect with Davina:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/davina.gazo/

Website: https://mckinneyrep.org/

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