We can’t believe the time is here, but it’s Molly Smith’s last week as Artistic Director of Arena Stage. She took the helm of this historic, internationally recognized theater—the first integrated theater in Washington, D.C.—at a time when women artistic directors of leading theaters were few and far between. For 25 years under her leadership, Arena Stage has produced more than 200 productions, championing the work of countless emerging and established playwrights.
Molly’s career by the numbers…
2014 – The year Molly made her Broadway debut, directing The Velocity of Autumn
59 – Helen Hayes Awards won by Arena Stage productions
41 – Playwrights mentored through the Barbara Walton Playwrights’ Arena
40 – Productions directed at Arena Stage over the course of her career
37 – New scripts premiered at Arena Stage
25 – Playwrights commissioned as part of the Power Plays initiative
13 – Seasons working alongside Executive Producer Edgar Dobie
9 – Arena Stage productions shepherded to Broadway
4 – Countries reached by the Voices of Now Program
2 – Tony Awards for Best Musical won for Next to Normal and Dear Evan Hansen
1 – Olivier Award for Best New Musical won for Dear Evan Hansen
Well Wishes
On May 23, 2023, we honored Molly and her spectacular 25-year tenure at our Annual Gala. Many of Molly’s favorite artists took the opportunity to reflect on what working with her has meant to them.
We invite everyone to share their #memorieswithmolly—comment below your favorite production, memory, or time with Molly!
Thank you for your outstanding leadership. One of my favorite memories with you is hanging the production images around Arena Stage. You cracked me up choosing just the right photo for the bathrooms 🙂 Best wishes in all your travels and future endeavors!
What an amazing legacy! Thank you for sharing your talents with us. The 2023 Gala, with all the Arena artists from over the years celebrating you, is definitely a favorite Arena memory. Safe travels and come back soon!
We’ll miss you, Molly! You’ve given so much to the American theater over your sterling career, and we are all richer for it. Can’t wait to welcome you back as a patron!
I have so many favorite memories, it’s hard to pick just one… “Oklahoma!” would be one for sure (also the first time I came to Arena Stage), and I love how you clap your hands in delight when you’re tickled by something! Thank you for everything you’ve given us, Molly, and we can’t wait to see you once you’re back from your travels!