ENFIELD — The Opera House Players has announced David McCarthy as its new executive director, bringing fresh energy and vision to the community theater organization.
McCarthy, who grew up in Shelton, has a lifelong passion for the arts and community engagement, making him a perfect fit for the role.
“I’m an artist at heart, with a deep appreciation for both creativity and connection,” McCarthy shared. “From a young age, I found myself drawn to the world of performance and the power of storytelling. Over the years, I’ve developed a strong connection to the arts — not just as a passion but as a way to engage with the community and bring people together. What really drew me to this position is the opportunity to contribute to a growing community theater and help it realize its full potential. I believe that community theaters are vital to our culture — they bring people together, create dialogue and spark imagination.”
McCarthy comes to OHP with a robust background in the nonprofit sector and a master of environmental management degree from the Yale School of the Environment. His multifaceted interests include environmentalism, a love of the outdoors, and a deep-seated belief in the power of the performing arts to unite and inspire communities.
“Opera House Players is a truly special organization, one that’s backed by a dynamic board, an incredible group of volunteers, and a growing base of passionate patrons,” said McCarthy. “My goals are to build on that foundation by expanding our outreach, deepening our relationships with the community, and enhancing our fundraising efforts. I’m also focused on supporting the board in advancing our mission and ensuring that OHP continues to evolve and thrive in perpetuity. It’s about creating a space where artists can grow, audiences can connect and the organization can serve as a cultural hub for the entire region. Together, we have the potential to take OHP to the next level, and I’m excited to be a part of that journey.”
OHP’s current season reflects its commitment to diverse, engaging performances. The 2024/2025 lineup includes “Rock of Ages,” an ‘80s rock jukebox musical that opened in November; the iconic “A Chorus Line,” coming in February; and the enchanting “Anastasia,” scheduled for May. The latter holds a special connection to Connecticut, having premiered at Hartford Stage before heading to Broadway.
McCarthy lives in Litchfield with his wife, Kelly, and their two children, Clara, 6, and Miles, 3. The family values an “analog” lifestyle, often spending time hiking, biking, and exploring the outdoors. This connection to nature parallels McCarthy’s dedication to fostering vibrant, connected communities.
“Opera House Players is special because it’s more than just a theater company — it’s a community. There’s a sense of belonging that permeates everything we do,” explained McCarthy. “From the dedicated board members to the enthusiastic volunteers, to the talented performers, OHP feels like a family. That sense of connection is evident both on stage and behind the scenes. It’s an organization that thrives on collaboration, creativity and a shared love of the arts. It’s also unique in its commitment to nurturing local talent and providing opportunities for people of all ages and backgrounds to get involved. OHP isn’t just creating theater; it’s fostering a creative ecosystem that benefits the entire community.”
OHP’s Board President Maya Nicole Matthews expressed confidence in McCarthy’s ability to lead the organization into its next phase.
“The Governance Committee vetted some extremely talented individuals,” said Matthews. “David stood out among the applicants due to his track record for organizational support and expansion.”
For McCarthy, the opportunity to join OHP represents a perfect blend of his personal passions and professional expertise.
“I’m ready to roll up my sleeves and help take OHP to the next level,” he said. “The arts have a powerful way of bringing people together, and I’m thrilled to be part of this journey.”
