FREDERICK, MD.: Maryland Ensemble Theatre (MET) has announced the appointment of Melynda Burdette Wintrol as managing director, effective immediately. Prior to appointment of this role, MET had a co-managing director leadership model, with Wintrol serving as co-managing director of production and operations. After review from staff, ensemble and the board, MET’s board of trustees voted to appoint Wintrol as the sole managing director.
“I am honored and excited to take on this new role at MET and am deeply grateful for the opportunity to continue contributing to such a vibrant and inspiring organization,” said Wintrol in a statement. “MET has been my home for the past six years and Frederick has been my home for the majority of my lifetime. I’m excited to work alongside our talented staff and artists to continue producing high-quality performances while deepening our contribution to and collaboration with the community.”
As MET production manager since 2019, Wintrol oversaw 55 productions, demonstrating exceptional leadership, organizational skills, and a deep commitment to MET’s mission. In 2022 she oversaw the capital renovation of the Robin Drummond Mainstage at MET. In her new role, Wintrol will oversee all aspects of MET’s administration, including financial management, strategic planning, fundraising, marketing, and community engagement.
“Melynda’s leadership, dedication, and deep-rooted passion for MET make her the perfect person to step into this role,” said Trish Southwell, president of the board of directors, in a statement. “Her vision for the future of MET, combined with her years of experience and commitment to the arts community, will undoubtedly strengthen our impact and help us continue to grow. We are thrilled to have her at the helm.”
Prior to her work at MET, Wintrol served as director of education at Adventure Theatre MTC, the D.C. area’s longest running theatre for young audiences. She recently returned to ATMTC to serve as interim executive director during a time of transition. During this time, she restored staffing, reactivated the professional productions and Academy classes and programs, and reengaged long-time funders and patrons. As a teaching artist and vocal coach, she led classes and private lessons at Black Rock Center for the Arts, Drama Learning Center, ATMTC Academy, Ovations Theatre, Columbia Center for Theatrical Arts, and Maryland Ensemble Theatre. Wintrol holds a bachelor’s of music in musical theatre from the Catholic University of America and a master’s in nonprofit and association management from the University of Maryland, Global Campus. She is a Frederick native and has made her career throughout the DMV theatre scene as a performer, stage manager, and administrator.
Maryland Ensemble Theatre is a professional, collaborative theatre ensemble broadly connected to their community by inspiring passion for the arts with courageous, relevant, accessible programs that enable people to feel more, think deeper, and laugh longer. As of 2023, they have a budget of approximately $930,000.
