The Rylander staff is proud to announce that we FINALLY have a wonderful new addition to our theatre… Our new Managing Director, Heather Cross!

Heather was born and raised in Leesburg, GA and has been involved in theatre most of her life. She started at the age of 4 in church and community productions, and began her first acting classes at the age of 7. Growing up, Heather’s parents were very supportive. Her father often served as set builder for her productions, while her mother always helped out with costumes.

In December of 2008 Heather graduated from Valdosta State University with a degree in Theatre with a Technical emphasis. While attending VSU, Heather was the President of the United States Institute for Theatre Technology VSU chapter, as well as the Co-founder/ Managing Artistic Director of the Avastama Play Festival in Valdosta, GA. In addition to all of her leadership roles, Heather was also in the world premier of Holler Me Home, a play written by Emmy Nominated writer, and VSU Alum, Debra Fordham.

Heather’s theatre experience is steeped into many years of performance and technical support. For two years, she taught K-5 drama in Dougherty County public schools. After her teaching experience, she moved to Athens, GA where she worked in music productions with summer music tours. Most recently, Heather worked as the Production Assistant for the Box Office hit film, Zombieland, filmed in Valdosta, GA.

As the director of the Rylander Theatre, Heather is “very excited to be here and looking forward to working with the community. The Rylander can hopefully be a cultural hub for Americus and surrounding areas.” As far as the goals that she has for the Rylander, Heather says she would like to “increase visibility, attract new events, and fulfill the Rylander’s Mission Statement.” Everyone here at the Rylander is pleased to have her on board.