Daniel has appeared on the Playhouse stage as a performer and has had an extensive career developing and managing productions of all kinds.
Recently, the Highlands Playhouse has hired a new Executive director. Scott Daniel has plotted a dynamic new course for the historic theater. Daniel has appeared on the Playhouse stage as a performer and has had an extensive career developing and managing productions of all kinds.
Until recently, Daniel was based in Florida.
“I was working with Norwegian Cruise Line prior to the pandemic. I had come here in September 2019 to perform… I had just left Norwegian as their director of production,” Daniel said.
Daniel was the “Scott” in “The Scott and Patty Show” that sold out a one-night barnburner of a performance at Highlands Playhouse and was his introduction to the town.
“I was with them for five years creating their production department. My whole goal was to build the program and leave that legacy to someone else. I did the same thing at Royal Caribbean, at Busch Gardens, and at Disney.”
Prior to those jobs with large entertainment corporations Daniel had operated in the world of nonprofits.
“I had left nonprofits behind about 8 years prior, and I really missed it. I missed being more community related and working to find content that is the right choice for a specific group of people versus a wide variety of cruisers. I wanted an opportunity to curate specific content. And to be a part of that community.”
After a standout 2019 season, the Highlands Playhouse - like all theaters of its kind - closed its doors due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
“We had to be very smart and very financially conservative to the way we approached reopening.” says David Healy, President of the Highlands Playhouse Board of Directors.
However, Daniel’s vision for the theater is, he said, ambitious.
“Our plan is to start production in 2022 in June and do live shows until January.” Daniel says. “We have a really active board right now, that I’m thankful for. They’ve been very supportive.”
The Highlands Playhouse is currently showing films and preparing for its first live production of the 2021 season. For showtimes, upcoming events, or to purchase tickets, visit highlandsplayhouse.org or call 828-526-2695.
Article by Lance Matzke