HOUSTON – Stages is Houston’s home for intimate storytelling through theater and community, and a pivotal figure behind the scenes recently announced his retirement.
His name is Kenn Mclaughlin, Stages artistic director who joined Houston Life for a look at his accomplishments and some of the highlights during the 23 years he’s been working with the theater company.
McLaughlin has produced more than 100 productions—record-breaking hits like The Marvelous Wonderettes and Always…Patsy Cline, which kicks off his final season in September, and has directed more than 30 shows for Stages.
“When he started in 2001, Stages had a full-time staff of 6—now it’s 46,” says McLaughlin who brought pivotal world and U.S. premieres to Stages such as De Kus, Black Pearl Sings, An American Brat, Miss Teen, and The Great American Trailer Park Christmas Musical.
One of his biggest legacies will be leading the company on the journey to bringing Stage’s new home, The Gordy, to fruition. This is Stages’ $35 million, 3-stages complex that opened in January 2020.
McLaughlin still has a full year ahead of him. His final bow will be in June of 2024 at the end of the 2023-20224 season and he is already working on planning the 2024-2025 season.
Check out his complete interview in the video above to hear him recount some of his best memories behind the scenes, including a memorable visit from former President George H. W. Bush at Stages.
For more information about Stages, click here.