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About Us
Kim Willard
Owner/Teacher at Willard Arts Academy
Kim Willard brings more than 30 years of teaching and directing experience to Willard Arts Academy. As a founder of Mountain Movers Theatre Company, she continues to guide its artistic vision while expanding opportunities for accessible arts education through Willard Arts Academy. A Grammy Award–winning theatre curriculum designer, Kim has taught K–12 music and theatre in New Hampshire, Virginia, and South Carolina; served as adjunct theatre faculty at James Madison University; and developed educational programming for the former Jenny Wiley Theatre. She also founded the theatre minor program at the University of Pikeville. Kim holds a Bachelor of Science in Music Education from Plymouth State University in New Hampshire and a Master of Fine Arts from The Actors Studio Drama School at Pace University in New York City.
Darryl Willard
Owner at Willard Arts Academy
Darryl Willard is proud to call Eastern Kentucky home after working in Connecticut, New Hampshire, Massachusetts, Virginia and South Carolina for construction and theatre companies. Darryl brings his extensive technical and managerial experience in both theatre and construction to Willard Arts Academy. A co-founder of Mountain Movers Theatre Company, he remains an integral part of its design and production leadership while helping shape the infrastructure and creative environment of Willard Arts Academy. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Interdisciplinary Studies (Music & Theatre) from Plymouth State University and a Master’s Certificate in Production Management from Clemson University. Darryl previously served as Managing Director and Technical Director at Jenny Wiley Theatre and now works for Codell Construction Company building real buildings by day, and is Mountain Movers Theatre's Set Designer, Lighting Designer and Technical Director by night and weekends.
Ryann Willard
Manager/Teacher at Willard Arts Academy
Ryann Willard is a costume designer and educator who brings her creativity and teaching passion to Willard Arts Academy. A longtime designer for Mountain Movers Theatre Company, Ryann has created costumes for productions such as Bonnie and Clyde and Little Shop of Horrors, and continues to lend her artistic vision to both organizations. Ryann holds a Master of Fine Arts in Costume Design from Southern Illinois University and a Bachelor of Fine Arts from Plymouth State University. Her professional experience includes several years traveling the world, designing costumes for Norwegian Cruise Lines and for various regional theatres. She especially loves working with children and helping students of all ages discover confidence through creative expression. She would like to thank Louisa and ARC for inviting her family here to create art alongside this community.
Kelly Short
Office Manager at Willard Arts Academy
Kelly Short is a graduate of Alice Lloyd College and has been teaching in Lawrence County for seventeen years. Her daughter, Lynlee, is a student at Willard Arts Academy. Kelly is so excited to have the opportunity to work with the public and encourage our youth and community to participate in the arts.
Jerica Conley
Assistant Office Manager at Willard Arts Academy
Jerica Conley is our Assistant Office Manager here at Willard Arts Academy. Louisa born and bred mom of 2 theatre kids, she has been a part of the MoMo family since 2019 when her oldest son first took the stage. When you don’t see her at the Academy you can find her backstage at The Garden Theatre taking care of all the hair things for shows. She is always willing to lend a hand where needed. Jerica is grateful for the opportunity to help in her community and forever grateful for the wonderful extended family she has been given through the Arts right here here in Louisa.
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