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Kirk Detweiler, the executive director of the Marion Palace Theatre, has had a career that has brought him full circle. Born in Marion and raised in a farmhouse outside of Waldo, Detweiler always had a passion for architecture and design. However, it was during his time in eighth grade, watching his older sister perform in a musical, that his interest in theatre was sparked.

After graduating from Kent State with a degree in telecommunications, Detweiler pursued a career in the entertainment industry. He spent a year working with a production company in Florida and then landed his first job on a cruise ship in Hawaii. He fell in love with the sea life and spent a total of 35 years working on cruise ships, with 31 of those years as a cruise director for the Royal Caribbean Group.

In 2019, Detweiler was hired by a cruise line in India but unfortunately, due to the pandemic, the company went out of business. He then worked as an entertainment director at a resort in St. Maarten for a year before hearing about the retirement of Bev Ford, the previous executive director of the Marion Palace Theatre. Detweiler decided to throw his hat into the ring and was hired for the position in November 2021.

Detweiler’s experience in the entertainment industry and his deep connection to the Marion community have made him a great fit for the role of executive director. He is responsible for scheduling, maintenance, and managing human resources at the theatre. Detweiler has a strong passion for the theatre and its history, as he has been involved in numerous productions at the Marion Palace Theatre throughout the years.

Detweiler’s return to Marion and his position at the Marion Palace Theatre has been met with enthusiasm from the community. Clare Cooke, an active member of the theatre, praises Detweiler for his experience and community-mindedness. Detweiler himself expresses his love for the theatre and the joy he feels in being able to go home every night.

The Marion Palace Theatre, located at 276 W. Center St. in Marion, continues to be a beloved institution in the community. Under the leadership of Kirk Detweiler, its legacy and impact on the community are sure to thrive.

The post Kirk Detweiler: A Journey to the Executive Director of the Marion Palace Theatre appeared first on ISP Today.