Hembree to join Columbia Children’s Theatre

Larry Hembree was hired by the Columbia Children’s Theatre's board of directors as its first director of development.

“Larry has been a leader in the Columbia arts scene for years, and we are happy to have him share his wealth of experience with us to make the Columbia Children’s Theatre the best possible experience for children and families in the Midlands,” board chair Stig Rasmussen said in a news release.

Hembree has more than 30 years of experience in the non-profit arts sector and will be responsible for fundraising, donor relations and strategic planning.

“I have followed the work of CCT since its very first production and have watched the organization grow into one of the artistic jewels in our city,” Hembree said in a news release. “CCT’s programming is unmatched in terms of theatre education and performances for youth presenting shows featuring adult professional actors and youth, along with touring productions and a wide variety of classes."

Hembree most recently served as managing director of Trustus Theatre and was executive director of Nickelodeon Theatre as well as performing arts director for the S.C. Arts Commission and director of theater for the Fine Arts Center of Kershaw County.

In its 12th season as a professional theater for youth, CCT programs out of Richland Mall in Forest Acres and was home to 50,000 patrons last season.

This story was originally published December 11, 2016 at 3:53 PM with the headline "Hembree to join Columbia Children’s Theatre."