TRAVIS KENDRICK, 34 / Director of Education, Mill Mountain Theatre
After displaying his talents on stages in California and New York, Travis Kendrick brings his expertise to Roanoke as the Education Director at Mill Mountain Theatre, teaching a variety of classes in musical theatre, acting and dance. He also serves as the Apprentice Program Director and is a Visiting Faculty Member at Hollins University. As a professional director, choreographer, actor and educator, Kendrick’s impressive career includes not only well-known fan favorites, but original works of his own creation, as well as award-winning productions. He finds inspiration in his students and other artists, and loves seeing the local arts community lift each other up. “I love how theatre can reflect the world we live in, give us insights into ourselves, inspire inclusion and cultivate a deeper empathy for those around us,” Kendrick says.
From the Nomination: “Travis Kendrick always goes above and beyond everything he does, never failing to be passionate and innovative. He gives 100% into everything he does and cares so much about cultivating the next generation of artists. He creates every opportunity to educate and involve Roanoke students in the arts. By teaching advanced acting techniques, team building and playfulness, Kendrick inspires those around him to be the best they can be.”
- Currently serves as Visiting Faculty Member at Hollins University
- Earned MFA in Directing from the University of California-Irvine, 2016
- Earned Bachelor of Fine Arts in Musical Theatre from Point Park University, 2008
- Founding member of the Experimental Theatre Project at Point Park
- Co-wrote the book and lyrics to DOTTY DOT: A Children’s Musical; staged reading and workshop production with Experimental Theatre Project, toured local elementary schools in Pittsburgh and premiered in NYC at The Secret Theatre
- Directed and choreographed “Spring Awakening” at Los Angeles’s Lounge Theatre for Me+You Productions in August 2018; was nominated for Best Director for LA’s Robby Awards and the production won Best Musical
- Directing credits include: “Spring Awakening,” “A Christmas Story,” “Mamma Mia,” “Shrek The Musical,” “The Legend of Sleepy Hollow,” “The Jungle Book,’ “The Little Lion,” “Patchwork,” “The Christmas Cup,” “A Simple Gift,” “Willy Wonka Jr.,” and “Best of Broadway: The Songs of The 2000s”
- Yoga instructor at Uttara Yoga and In-Balance Yoga
What do you love about Roanoke?
Kendrick: “Roanoke is such a special community, and I believe the arts are at the center of it. Since coming here in August of 2016, I have gotten to know so many wonderful people through Mill Mountain Theatre. While teaching at MMT, I have gotten to know so many amazing young artists, and have seen how supported they are by their family and peers. It is a special place where students and families support and uplift each other!”
How does your passion impact our community?
Kendrick: “I am so passionate about theatre and education. Theatre can be a pretty time-consuming endeavor, but my passion for the work keeps me going. I always aim to give my all to every class, every student, every production I work on. And I am constantly inspired by the students I teach and the artists I work with. That inspiration fuels me, and I can’t imagine doing anything else!”
