HOUSTON: A.D. Players at the George Theater has selected long-term company member Kevin Dean as its new artistic director, effective immediately.

“The board is proud to welcome Kevin as the Players’ new artistic director,” said board chairman Gina Metzler at the organization’s After Dinner Affair gala March 23, following executive director Jake Speck’s announcement of Dean’s appointment. “Kevin has a history with the company. He has been a part of the work since 1999 and has risen through the organization. He is an ideal choice, and we are confident in his ability to fulfill the artistic components of our strategic plan.  We are excited about the company’s growth under his leadership.”

Dean was appointed interim artistic director following the death of artistic director Jeannette Clift George, who had led A.D. Players since it was established in 1967. After a trial period, the board unanimously decided to make Dean’s position permanent.

“It’s been an incredible journey,” Dean said, addressing the event’s attendees. “I started with this company in the fall of 1999 as an intern, and as I reflect on this last 20 years, I’m reminded of the many lessons God has taught me. Patience, steadfastness, and humility.” Dean continued, “Jeannette believed, as I believe, that stories can change lives, and those lives change the world. Whether this is your first time in our theatre or 10th time, no matter your race, color, creed, religious affiliation, or non-religious affiliation, my hope is that you will continue to join us on this journey, for as Jeannette would say, ‘Theatre is for all people.’”

A.D. Players, founded in 1967, has a mission to share compelling theatre to diverse audiences from a Christian worldview.