The Carolina Theatre of Durham Welcomes a New Education Director

Laurie Siegel Joins Theater Staff with Three Decades of Arts Education Experience in Durham 

 DURHAM, May 5, 2025 — The Carolina Theatre of Durham has hired a new Senior Director of Education and Community Outreach, Laurie Siegel. Siegel will succeed former director, Shana Adams. 

The position oversees programming for the Carolina Theatre’s Arts Discovery Educational Series, Family Saturday Series, Sensory Friendly Film Series, and Running Bull Film Festival. Arts Discovery Educational Series brings high quality performing arts experiences to schoolchildren visiting the Carolina Theatre as a fieldtrip destination; Family Saturday Series offers a diverse array of affordable live performances for families to enjoy on the weekend; the Sensory Friendly Film Series screens films in a welcoming and supportive environment for individuals on the autism spectrum or in need of sensory accommodations; and Runing Bull Film Festival, is a film festival and workshop to support, educate, and celebrate emerging student filmmakers in Durham. 

“It’s been an absolute joy to serve the Durham community in this role, and I’m so excited that Laurie is joining the Carolina Theatre team. I know she’ll carry these meaningful education and family programs forward with passion and care, while building strong connections that strengthen and expand our audiences as we head into the Centennial year and beyond.” says Adams, outgoing Senior Director of Education and Community Outreach. 

Siegel comes to the Carolina Theatre with almost three decades of arts education experience, in public, charter, and private settings, from infant through teen. With a Master’s in Music Education and National Board Certification, she has built a strong foundation of knowledge and skills that will transfer well into this position. As a long-time Durham resident and performer in theater and music, she has a deep love of the city and its diverse arts programming. Following her tenure as Lead Elementary Music Teacher with Durham Public Schools, Laurie brings strong connections with many community partners.  

“We’re incredibly thankful for Shana’s dedication and leadership—she’s made a lasting impact on our education and family programs,” says Randy McKay, President and CEO of the Carolina Theatre of Durham. “As we look ahead, we’re thrilled to welcome Laurie Siegel to the team. Her experience and passion for arts education make her the ideal person to carry this work forward.” 

She currently serves as the Board Chair for Durham Children’s Choir and also enjoys spending time with her husband, daughter, and many pets in her limited free time. 

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About The Carolina Theatre of Durham: 

Carolina Theatre of Durham, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization which manages the city-owned Carolina Theatre at 309 W. Morgan Street, Durham, NC 27701. Carolina Theatre of Durham, Inc. is dedicated to presenting vibrant, thought-provoking film and live performances that contribute to the cultural and economic vitality of downtown Durham and the Triangle Region. More information at carolinatheatre.org. 

Contact: Hana Mercer
Senior Director of Marketing, Carolina Theatre of Durham
(919) 560-3040 | hanna@carolinatheatre.org