The Repertory Theatre of St. Louis names artist, playwright and director Adena Varner as its new director of learning and community engagement.
Varner comes to St. Louis from the east coast where she previously held the titles of director of learning and social accountability and director of education at Baltimore Center Stage. There, she managed all education, family and civic programming, with a focus on storytelling that reflects and connects all communities.
“Adena is a passionate thought leader in arts education, a gifted facilitator of civic and social discourse and a champion of life-long learning, families and educators,” said Hana S. Sharif, The Rep’s Augustin Family artistic director. “We are thrilled to have her on the team as we bring the magic of theater to our communities and the power of our communities into our theaters.”
Adena Varner is a mother of three. Her husband is a sports performance coach. Photo courtesy of Stevie’s Photography
“I’m excited to join The Rep family and its dedicated staff in serving St. Louis’ children, families and communities in a myriad of ways,” Varner said. “My role is to help us think innovatively and creatively about how we reach our children, how we reach our families, how art and life intersect and what role we play in making sure we really do the job of serving our community in thoughtful ways.”
Varner graduated from the Baltimore School for the Arts’ theater department, earned her Bachelor of Arts in theater at the University of Maryland, and a Master of Arts in theatre education from The Catholic University of America.
To learn more about Varner, check out the Q&A on The Rep’s site. For more information on educational programs, such as the WiseWrite Digital Play Festival, visit repstl.org or call The Rep box office at (314)968-4925.