Introduction
The Utah Shakespeare Festival, located in Cedar City, Utah, is an annual event that features various productions of plays written by William Shakespeare and other renowned playwrights. The festival has been ongoing for over 60 years and has become a popular tourist attraction in the state of Utah. One of the prominent figures associated with the festival is Brian Vaughn, who has served as the Artistic Director since 2018.
Early Life and Career
Brian Vaughn was born in St. Louis, Missouri and grew up in Colorado. He attended Colorado State University where he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Theatre Arts. After graduation, he moved to New York City to pursue his acting career. Vaughn’s talent as an actor landed him various roles on Broadway and off-Broadway productions. He also had appearances in television shows and films.
Association with Utah Shakespeare Festival
Brian Vaughn joined the Utah Shakespeare Festival in 2000 as an actor. He played numerous roles in various productions over the years, and his talent as an actor did not go unnoticed. He was eventually promoted to Artistic Director in 2018, succeeding David Ivers.
Contributions as Artistic Director
Since becoming the Artistic Director, Brian Vaughn has made significant contributions to the Utah Shakespeare Festival. He has directed several productions, including “The Greenshow”, “Macbeth”, and “The Book of Will”. Vaughn has also introduced new programs to the festival, such as the “New American Playwrights Project” and the “Words Cubed” playwriting competition. These programs aim to promote new and original works by emerging playwrights and provide opportunities for aspiring actors and directors.
Personal Life
Brian Vaughn is married to Melissa Larson, who is also involved in theatre. They have two children, a son and a daughter. Vaughn enjoys outdoor activities such as hiking and skiing, and he also coaches his children’s sports teams.
Conclusion
Brian Vaughn’s contributions to the Utah Shakespeare Festival have made him a valuable member of the theatre community. His talent as an actor, director, and artistic director has helped to promote the festival and attract new audiences. Vaughn’s dedication to theatre and his commitment to promoting new and original works will continue to shape the future of the Utah Shakespeare Festival for years to come.