Trustus Theatre announces Kelsey Mesa as incoming Executive Artistic Director

Trustus Theatre announced the appointment of Kelsey Mesa as its next Executive Artistic Director. A dynamic leader, director, and educator, Mesa brings a wealth of experience from her tenure at the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C., along with an expansive body of work across the national theater landscape.

With over 17 years of arts management experience, Mesa most recently managed the Kennedy Center American College Theatre Festival, which celebrates the work of theatre in higher education and provides opportunities for student theatre artists to transition into the professional field.

Ty Zeigler, Board President, said, “Kelsey brings a fresh perspective to Trustus after so many years at the Kennedy Center. We are excited about Kelsey’s leadership and believe she can help Trustus grow, continuing our theatre’s vision of artistic innovation and excellence.”

An alumna of Directors Lab North, Mesa has also distinguished herself as a leader in theatre education and development. In 2021, she was awarded the Kennedy Center Gold Medallion, honoring her outstanding contributions to the teaching and production of theatre, and her impact on the Kennedy Center American College Theater Festival (KCACTF).

Dewey Scott-Wiley, Associate Artistic Director, said, “I have witnessed Kelsey’s incredible leadership and directing prowess firsthand through our work with the Kennedy Center American College Theatre Festival. She is equal parts inspiring and engaging, and we are extremely fortunate to have her lead us at Trustus.”

Mesa has built an impressive portfolio of directing credits at a wide range of respected institutions and companies, including the Hub Theatre, The Catholic University of America, Taffety Punk Theatre Company (where she is also a member), The Inkwell, and Folger Theater’s Reading Room Festival, among others. Her work is recognized for its bold storytelling, collaborative spirit, and commitment to artistic excellence.

During her tenure at Trustus, she will focus on strengthening the theatre’s long-term sustainability, deepening engagement with the community and fellow arts organizations, championing new works, and continuing the theatre’s trajectory of growth.

Originally from Miami, Florida, Mesa is a graduate of Northwestern University. Her diverse artistic background and commitment to cultivating vibrant creative communities position her to lead Trustus Theatre into its next chapter.

Mesa brings a strong commitment to new play development, with a focus on work that inspires audiences and drives meaningful conversation. Her writing often centers on women and examines the impact of oppression, stereotypes, and identity. She believes that the best play is one that drives audiences to action and motivates behavioral change.

Mesa is “thrilled to be joining a theatre company like Trustus that prioritizes community and equity while maintaining excellence and rigor in its theatre-making.” She is also excited to live in a thriving city like Columbia and looks forward to being part of its growth.

Trustus Theatre’s Board of Directors expressed enthusiasm about Mesa’s appointment, citing her visionary leadership, artistic rigor, and deep commitment to inclusive storytelling as key qualities that will shape the organization’s future.

Mesa assumed the role of Executive Artistic Director on April 27, 2026.

About Trustus Theatre

Trustus Theatre is a professional theatre company based in Columbia, South Carolina, dedicated to producing bold, relevant, and innovative works that engage and inspire its community. For more information, visit: www.trustus.org