Founded in 2019
A tour de force theater group.
Shakespeare & Friends, led by its esteemed board members Catherine Gillet, Andy Millard, Marianne Carruth, and Darlene Cah is proud to present classic plays with a captivating twist in Tryon, North Carolina. Prepare to be enthralled as we bring these timeless works to life in the enchanting outdoor amphitheater nestled within Rogers Park.
We extend heartfelt gratitude to our supporters, partners, and friends whose unwavering dedication has made these remarkable shows possible. Among them, we express special appreciation to the Town of Tryon for generously granting us the use of the exquisite Rogers Park Amphitheater.
Our mission is to make Shakespeare and other contemporary classics more accessible to our audiences. As a collective of talented writers, directors, and seasoned actors, we are committed to breathing new life into these beloved works, captivating and engaging both the avid enthusiasts and those encountering them for the first time.
Meet the Board
Marianne Carruth, a native of Tryon, has dedicated her life to theater, teaching, and directing children's theater. With Shakespeare & Friends, she has shined in roles like Antonia in The Tempest and Mrs. Graves in Enchanted April, while also serving as Executive Director of Tryon Fine Arts Center since 2014.
Catherine Gillet, a gifted playwright and director, brings her Off Broadway experience and the wisdom gained from studying under renowned playwrights to Shakespeare & Friends. As a co-founder, she has left her mark through captivating productions like True West and The Light in the Piazza, and her original plays have graced The Tryon Fine Arts Center stage.
Darlene Cah, Native New Yorker, made a rare spontaneous decision and said her first “Yes, and…” That decision led to a decade of longform improv, and sketch comedy performances at Gotham City Improv in New York City. Since moving to Tryon, she’s had roles in A Midsummer Night’s Dream (2019 & 2025), The Light in the Piazza, The Tempest, Enchanted April, The Crucible, Hamlet: a Requiem, and several staged readings, including The Laramie Project, and 4,000 Miles, among others.
Andy Millard, an active member of the Polk County community, has rediscovered his passion for theater through his involvement with Shakespeare & Friends. He gratefully acknowledges his supportive wife Sharon, and together, they reside in Columbus with their beloved companion, Riley.