Close Up: Wayne Shields-Hogue
Meet Wayne!
As the new Executive Director of Playhouse in the Park, Wayne is ecstatic to show the community what he can do in this new position. Get to know him from our latest interview!
How long have you lived in Murray?
I first moved to Murray State right out of high school in 2011, but I moved to Murray with my spouse in 2017 and have been here ever since!
What are you most excited about in your new role?
Playhouse has always been a second home for me ever since I stepped in the doors in 2011 for my first audition for The Sound of Music. While I have big shoes to fill following the iconic Lisa Copeland, I think that the most exciting part of my new job is getting to be a part of the wonderful history that Playhouse in the Park has had since it began back in 1977! Playhouse is a home for all of the many volunteers who walk through our doors, from auditioning to acting, and all of our wonderful tech crew. There is always someone at Playhouse with a smile on their face and a warm hug for anyone in need.
What are 3 things you love most in life?
That is the easiest question I can answer!
My spouse
My dog, Gracie (Shih Tzu)
Theatre!
What is your favorite restaurant in Murray?
Ugh, I love food, so this one is a hard one! I can pretty much be found at Jasmine, Big Apple, Mister B’s and Crossroads on any day of the week!
What is your favorite Murray memory?
Gosh, I have so many! Most of my favorite times in Murray involve Murray State Theater or Playhouse in the Park!
If you had $75 to spend in Murray, how would you use it?
This is a fun question! Especially if it was a Saturday!
Start the day off with the Murray Farmers Market
Stop by Fanspired
Run for a new book from Bolin Books
End the night with a ticket for a show at Playhouse in the Park
Describe Murray in 3 words to someone who has never visited.
Easy
You can get all your errands done on a day off within 20 minutes in town!
Beautiful
Driving around town can be stress-reducing. The sights here are so beautiful!
Opportunity-filled
There are a lot of things to do when you look around! Whether it’s a walk in the arboretum or being involved in a show at Playhouse, seeing a game at MSU or a trip to Murray Farmers Market, there is always something going on.
