Melissa Wharton, President
Melissa is very active in the everyday running of all activities of ACT. She is non-stop with ideas and enthusiasm. She directs, teaches, plans, organizes, and initiates new programs. Before founding ACT, she was owner of MAP Dance Studios.
Kathy Dotson, Executive Director
Kathy has been with ACT since 2005. A native of Wise, Kathy has worked with children of the region for over 25 years. A passion for the Children's Theatre drives Kathy to oversee the daily operations of the center as well as handling the financial aspects for the entire organization.
Tamara R. Greear, Accountant
Tamara has been responsible for ACT's bookkeeping, accounting, and tax preparation since 2001. Tamara is a true supporter of ACT and all that we do. She is a very vital and important part of our organization. Tamara was instrumental in the founding of Appalachian Children's Theatre, and has been a part of all that we do no matter how busy she is!
Melissa Wharton, President
Melissa P. Wharton, President, founded ACT in 1999 simply because she saw a need not only for her children but the children of the region. She has continued to put a great deal of time and effort into making ACT the best it can be. She is constantly working to improve not only the Appalachian Children’s Theatre but the region as well. Melissa is a tireless advocate for art ecucation and live theater. She works with the productions, she speaks to groups all over Southwest Virginia, and she is always willing to go that extra mile to keep ACT as professional as theaters in urban areas.
Jerry Wharton, Vice President
Jerry is the owner of a successful business in the region. He has a passion for education and the arts. He is also one of the founders of ACT and an avid pilot.
Mark Wooten
Mark is an engineer by trade and a musician by choice. He is part of The Kennedy Brothers band consisting of Ritchie Kennedy, Brent Kennedy and Bill Thompson. Mark is an avid VA Tech fan, Go Hokies!
Darrell Grigsby
Darrell is in the coal business and has long been a supporter of ACT. He belives in art education and loves to see children living up to their potential. In his spare time he likes to fly his own plane.
Ritchie Kennedy
A local successful attorney and wonderful musician who is also a part of the Kennedy Brothers. Ritchie is an advocate for children in our area as well as a huge Cleveland Browns fan!
Gigi Pippin
Gigi is a former music teacher and principal for the Norton City Schools. She volunteers with the Children's Choir of the Wise Baptist Church. She and her husband Don promote arts education. Gigi works diligently to make sure that children who wish to participate in music, art, voice and anything that will bring them fulfillment are not left out.
