Greenbrier Valley Theatre (GVT), the State Professional Theatre of West Virginia, proudly announces the appointment of Courtney Susman-Frye as its new Producing Artistic Director. A West Virginia native, long-time theatre educator, and passionate community leader, Susman-Frye steps into this leadership role with a deep commitment to storytelling, education and creative excellence.
“I grew up in this theatre, watching shows, performing onstage, and helping behind the curtain,” Courtney shared. “GVT has always felt like home to me. It’s been a place where theatre artists could grow, create, and dream big, just like I did.”
Susman-Frye previously served as GVT’s Director of Education and Associate Artistic Director, creating enriching programming for students and directing productions that left lasting impressions across the region. She graduated from Marshall University with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Theatre and the University of Southern Mississippi with a Master of Fine Arts in Theatre.
Her broader career includes roles at other impactful nonprofits in West Virginia, including Generation West Virginia and Mountaineer Food Bank, where she combined creativity with real-world impact through workforce development and technology training. She is a 2024 West Virginia Wonder Woman award recipient from West Virginia Living Magazine.
“The Board of Trustees is delighted that Courtney is returning to GVT, having previously spent seven years with us,” said Dave Dillon, GVT board chair. “We feel fortunate having her on board as Producing Artistic Director, helping lead the team in re-establishing our roots in the surrounding communities and throughout the region. Courtney is a homegrown talent and we are so excited to welcome her back home.”
The 2025 season at GVT launches with the beloved whodunit comedy Clue, directed by Susman-Frye, and continues with Beautiful: The Carole King Musical, A Closer Walk With Patsy Cline, The Burnt Part Boys, and Miss Bennet: Christmas at Pemberley.
“This is a pivotal moment – not just for me, but for GVT and for the role theatre can play in communities like ours,” said Susman-Frye. “Theatre connects us. It reminds us who we are and invites us to imagine who we can become. We’re ready to tell bold stories, welcome new voices and create a space where everyone feels they belong.”
For more information, visit www.gvtheatre.org.
Greenbrier Valley Theatre is the State Professional Theatre of West Virginia. Learn more about GVT at www.gvtheatre.org.
