Hello

Welcome, and thanks for stopping by. I’m Doug DeGirolamo, a director and arts leader who has spent my life building theatre communities and creating work that brings people together. This site offers a look at the projects I’ve led, the companies I’ve served, and the creative journey that shaped my path in this field. I’m glad you’re here.

My Story

My path in theatre began at DeSales University in Pennsylvania, where I earned my degree in Theatre Arts and spent four years working with the Pennsylvania Shakespeare Festival. Those seasons at PSF shaped my foundation as a director and arts administrator. I interned with the General Manager and Producing Artistic Director, gaining an inside look at professional theatre operations, artistic planning, and the demands of summer repertory. In my final year I served as the Company Manager, overseeing visiting artists, coordinating schedules, and helping the festival run smoothly from the inside out. It taught me the discipline, communication, and leadership that continue to guide my work today.

After college, I moved into community theatre leadership at the Thibodaux Playhouse in Louisiana, where I served as Artistic Director for five years. There, I worked to raise artistic quality, grow attendance, and create a rehearsal environment where performers of all backgrounds felt supported. I directed multiple productions each season, collaborated closely with the board, and helped shape a lineup that balanced audience favorites with artistically ambitious work. Thibodaux became a creative home for many, and I remain proud of the momentum we built together.

My journey eventually led me to Texas and the Gaslight-Baker Theatre, where I now serve as Artistic Director. Here I guide season planning, mentor new directors, strengthen volunteer training, and support the creative teams who bring each production to life. I work with our board and community partners to sustain a healthy, fully volunteer run organization while expanding educational offerings, technical capabilities, and long term artistic goals. My focus is on building a theatre that welcomes new artists, challenges returning ones, and serves as a cultural anchor for the community.

Across every stage of my career, from PSF to Thibodaux to Gaslight-Baker, my work has centered on collaboration, craft, and community. I believe in theatre that invites people in, develops talent, and leaves its mark on everyone who participates.

Work Experience

Artistic Director, Gaslight-Baker Theatre - Lockhart, TX
January 2025 - Present

- Curate and oversee full season of productions, balancing artistic quality and audience engagement.
- Direct one or more productions annually and mentor directors for other shows.
- Lead season planning, script selection, and long-term artistic vision.
- Supervise rehearsals, provide artistic guidance, and ensure production quality.
- Manage casting process, including auditions, callbacks, and role assignments.
- Oversee technical upgrades and performance systems, including lighting, sound, and QLab integration.
- Develop and lead acting classes, workshops, and community engagement programs.
- Coordinate with board on budgets, scheduling, and production status.
- Build and maintain relationships with patrons, donors, and community partners.
- Foster a collaborative and educational environment for volunteer artists and crew.

Vice President, Gaslight-Baker Theatre - Lockhart, TX
October 2021 - January 2025

- Oversee operations and goals of a non-profit theatre with a $100K+ annual budget.
- Coordinate 60+ volunteers, auditions, and casting for 10 annual shows.
- Manage Front of House (ticketing, software, concessions) and serve as CTO for performance systems.
- Direct one production per season and lead tech upgrades (lighting/sound).
- Plan events, handle project management, and liaise with patrons and donors.
- Conduct rehearsals, review scripts, and strategize season planning.
- Represent theatre at local organizations and lead board/committee meetings.
- Develop seminars to boost volunteer skills and team-building.

Artistic Director, Hill Country Theatre - Buda, TX
May 2018 - May 2021

- Created a local community theatre for under-served regions in the area, including ensuring all permitting was in compliance.
- Led and collaborated with a board of 9 directors in daily and long-term operations of the community theatre.
- Networked and secured support from local businesses and volunteers.
- Developed and implemented budget items, fundraising initiatives, and managed social media and website.
- Directed multiple productions and coordinated related events.
- Continued to lead and adapt creatively through the COVID-19 pandemic.

Production Manager, TexArts - Lakeway, TX
October 2015 - April 2016

- Hired designers and technicians for academy productions.
- Managed build schedules and production purchases.
- Served as stage manager for academy productions.
- Oversaw theatre space and facilities management.

Artistic Director, Thibodaux Playhouse Inc. - Thibodaux, LA
March 2011 - August 2015

- Directed and produced multiple shows each season; led 25% of all productions.
- Managed season selection, marketing, ticketing, and tech direction.
- Organized auditions, callbacks, and rehearsals with guest directors.
- Coordinated two annual gala fundraisers and secured $14K in grant funding.
- Engaged patrons and donors, and represented the theatre at the Chamber of Commerce.
- Provided monthly artistic updates to the board and supported ongoing fundraising efforts.

Administrative Assistant, PA Shakespeare Festival - Center Valley, PA
2006 - 2010

- Gained comprehensive experience in theatre administration, production, and technical operations.
- Assisted with auditions and callbacks in NYC and Philadelphia for Equity actors.
- Coordinated organizational strategies with the General Manager.
- Enhanced company members' experience through effective management practices.
- Worked with existing patrons and donors for special events.

Education

DeSales University, Center Valley, PA
Bachelor of Arts (Theatre)

Specialization in Acting & Directing

Skills

- Acting, Directing, Teaching, Lighting, Sound, Stagecraft, Design
- Marketing, Event Programming, ArtsPeople, OntTheStage. QLab, Grant Writing, Fundraising
- Project Management, CRM, Google Suite, MS Suite, Mac Suite

Contact

I'm always looking for new and exciting opportunities. Let's connect.

ddeg447@gmail.com

doug@mygbt.org

C: 512-781-1945