May 11, 2022

An actor, director and arts education advocate has been hired to help lead The Premiere Playhouse.

Oliver Mayes will become the managing artistic director July 1. He’s a theater and media artist whose work has been seen in California, New Jersey, New York, Oregon, Virginia and most recently as the guest director of “Cabaret,” the season finale for the community theater, which opens Thursday.

Mayes earned his bachelor’s degree in music theater from AMDA College of the Performing Arts in Los Angeles and a master’s in theater directing from the University of South Dakota.

“This is truly my dream job and what I have been working toward in my career thus far,” he said in a statement. “Having the opportunity to use my experience and professional training to take The Premiere Playhouse to the next level is something I am very excited about.”

Mayes’ hiring fills a void left by the departure of executive and artistic director Robin Byrne, who will be returning to England after June 30.

The organization is excited to have Mayes on board “to lead our growing organization as we continue to bring affordable and quality theater to the Sioux Empire community,” president Rick Weiland said. “Oliver brings a contemporary perspective and professional experience that will position our organization for future success.”