Uncovering Dayton’s Arts Heartbeat: Tina McPhearson on Community Theater & Cultural Growth

Join hosts Philip Drennen and Josh Stuckey on The Dayton Drama Queens as they sit down with Tina McPhearson—Dayton native, veteran arts educator, and longtime programming director at the Victoria Theatre and Dayton Playhouse. In this episode, Tina shares her journey from ushering at Kenley Players to teaching high school theater, managing prominent Dayton institutions (Dayton Playhouse, Victoria Theatre, and the Dayton Art Institute), and nurturing generations of local talent. Discover how Dayton’s arts scene has evolved, learn insider perspectives on choosing seasons at the Playhouse, and hear Tina’s thoughts on sustaining arts organizations amid today’s challenges. From backstage anecdotes about Ethel Merman and Robert Preston to her passion for DEI initiatives at the Art Institute, Tina offers inspiring stories and actionable insights for anyone invested in Dayton’s creative community. Whether you’re a theatre enthusiast, arts administrator, or simply curious about Dayton’s cultural resurgence, this conversation dives deep into the stories, struggles, and successes that keep our local stages alive. Don’t miss this celebration of Dayton’s vibrant arts legacy—tune in and subscribe for more episodes of The Dayton Drama Queens!