Lexington, September 6, 2025
News Summary
Lexington’s Village Square Theatre has announced David LaTorre as its new artistic director, effective June 1, 2025. LaTorre, who has a rich history with the theatre, aims to enhance youth programs and community engagement. His first production will be a junior edition of ‘Alice in Wonderland.’ This appointment marks a significant step for VST as they establish a full-time artistic director role to drive artistic growth and outreach.
Lexington Welcomes New Artistic Director to Village Square Theatre
Lexington’s Village Square Theatre (VST) has announced the appointment of David LaTorre as its new artistic director. LaTorre, who will officially assume his role on June 1, 2025, brings a wealth of experience and a personal connection to the theater, having previously performed in productions at VST during his youth. His appointment highlights the theater’s ongoing commitment to artistic growth and community engagement.
VST, which has its origins in the 1960s as the Lexington County Arts Association, has long relied on volunteer efforts to operate. With LaTorre stepping into the position as the first full-time employee in the theater’s history, the organization aims to enhance its offerings, particularly focused on youth theater programs. His first production as artistic director will be a junior edition of “Alice in Wonderland”, inspired by both the original Disney animated classic and Tim Burton’s remake.
Professional Background
LaTorre holds a Bachelor’s degree in musical theater from Anderson University. His career has included performances at Disney and Universal theme parks in Florida, enriching his experience in the performing arts. However, like many artists, he faced disruptions during the COVID-19 pandemic, which forced him to take on jobs outside of theater, including working as a ride attendant and scare actor.
Since returning to Columbia, LaTorre made his Town Theatre debut in “Bright Star” in spring 2022 and quickly progressed to becoming the youth director. He has directed multiple productions, including “Once Upon a Mattress”. His experiences shaped his understanding of mentorship and community engagement, which he aims to incorporate into his role at VST.
Vision for VST
The board of VST, led by President Tricia Miller, is optimistic that LaTorre’s expertise will significantly benefit the local arts community. The decision to create a full-time artistic director position involved a strategic capital investment aiming to combine two former part-time roles, confirming the importance of this new leadership role to the theater’s growth.
LaTorre aims to enhance the theater’s outreach, expressing a desire to attract a more diverse audience while providing enriching theatrical experiences for both youth and adults. He believes that theater can create valuable opportunities for young performers, fostering qualities such as teamwork, responsibility, and community involvement.
Conclusion
With David LaTorre at the helm, the Village Square Theatre looks forward to a new chapter that promises increased engagement and opportunities for artistic expression among the youth. His upcoming production of “Alice in Wonderland” will mark the start of what the theater hopes will be a vibrant future under LaTorre’s guidance.
FAQ
Who is the new artistic director of Village Square Theatre?
David LaTorre has been appointed as the new artistic director of Lexington’s Village Square Theatre.
When will LaTorre officially start his role?
David LaTorre will officially start his duties as artistic director on June 1, 2025.
What will be LaTorre’s first production at VST?
His first production as artistic director will be a junior edition of “Alice in Wonderland.”
What is VST’s history?
Village Square Theatre was established in the 1960s as the Lexington County Arts Association and primarily operates through volunteer efforts.
What is LaTorre’s background in the arts?
LaTorre has a Bachelor’s degree in musical theater and has performed at Disney and Universal theme parks. He has also directed various theater productions.
Key Features of David LaTorre’s Appointment
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Name | David LaTorre |
| Start Date | June 1, 2025 |
| First Production | Junior edition of “Alice in Wonderland” |
| Education | Bachelor’s degree in musical theater from Anderson University |
| Previous Experience | Performed at Disney and Universal, directed youth theater |
| Community Focus | Enhancing youth programs, reaching diverse audiences |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
David LaTorre Takes the Helm at Village Square Theatre
Additional Resources
- ABC Columbia: Local Living – Freaky Friday at Village Square Theatre
- Post and Courier: Lexington Village Square Theater Director David LaTorre
- ABC Columbia: Date Night Idea – RENT at Village Square Theatre
- Patch: Velveteen Rabbit Play Has 4 Performances in Hoboken This Weekend
- New York Theatre Guide: Guide to Union Square Theatre’s Restaurants and Activities
Author: STAFF HERE LEXINGTON WRITER
The LEXINGTON STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERELexington.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Lexington, Fayette County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Woodland Art Fair, Crave Food and Music Festival, and Railbird Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like Commerce Lexington and Blue Grass Community Foundation, plus leading businesses in education, manufacturing, and technology that power the local economy such as University of Kentucky, Toyota Motor Manufacturing, and Lexmark. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBowlingGreen.com and HERELouisville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Kentucky's dynamic landscape.
