Inspired by Richmond Civic Theatre shows as a child, Kate Jetmore acted in Junior Players and RCT before performing professionally across the country.
Now, after living abroad for more than two decades, the Richmond native is returning to serve as RCT’s executive director.
After a comprehensive search, RCT’s board announced its new hire July 23. Members noted Jetmore’s unique combination of artistic experience, collaborative leadership and passion for community engagement.
“Throughout the search process, it became clear that she understands not only what it takes to lead a theater, but why community theater matters,” said Tim Kaehr, board president, in a news release. “We are thrilled to welcome her home and look forward to a bright future under her leadership.”
Jetmore will jump in quickly to oversee RCT’s season, which opens Aug. 6 with “1776: The Musical.”
“Returning to Richmond Civic Theatre feels like coming home,” Jetmore said in a news release. “This theater gave me not only artistic training, but confidence, discipline, community and a lasting sense of possibility. I’m honored to have the opportunity to help steward an organization that has shaped so many lives, including my own.”
Jetmore’s youth theater experiences led her to pursue a bachelor’s degree in theater at New York University’s Tisch School of the Arts. After graduation, she performed professionally in New York City, at various regional theaters and with national touring productions.
She relocated to Spain in 2002, where she built a multifaceted career as a translator, coach, voiceover artist and podcast host, including Western Wayne News’ podcast.
Jetmore plans to support the theater’s artistic mission while expanding community partnerships, strengthening donor relationships, telling the stories of its enduring impact on generations of volunteers and audiences, and inviting more people to get involved.
In addition to RCT’s eight Main Stage and Stage One Youth productions, upcoming events include the annual Stage Fright and Storybook Cafe.
Many programs have evolved since the theater at 1003 E. Main St. began offering performances in 1941.
“RCT plays a key role in this community, as well as being its own incredible community,” Jetmore said. “As we step into this next chapter, I’m excited to help ensure that RCT continues to be a place where people discover their talents, build lifelong friendships and experience the joy of creating something meaningful together.”
Where to listen
Kate Jetmore has hosted more than 50 podcast episodes for Western Wayne News, offering conversations with Wayne County residents from a variety of backgrounds about their lives and work here. She uncovers their passions and how their journeys have unfolded. Audio and transcripts for each episode can be found at westernwaynenews.com/podcasts/ or wherever you get your podcasts.
A version of this article appeared in the July 29 2026 print edition of the Western Wayne News.
