An Important Message from Mountain Theatre Company's Board of Directors

Mountain Theatre Company’s Board of Directors announces today, August 10th, 2026 that Scott Daniel will conclude his remarkable tenure as MTC’s Executive Artistic Director following the final performance of its August production of SHOWSTOPPERS!. A “Scott Daniel Original,” SHOWSTOPPERS! will mark the end of an extraordinary chapter in MTC’s 88-year history. It runs August 12th - 30th.

Scott moved to Highlands from Florida in 2021, bringing with him decades of professional theatre experience. He came with the determination to elevate the theatrical reputation of what was then Highlands Playhouse over the next five years. He and his team hit the ground running, bringing Broadway-worthy shows to the Playhouse stage! At the same time, Scott oversaw the rebranding of the Highlands Playhouse to Mountain Theatre Company, and orchestrated MTC’s move into its beautiful current home in the Performing Arts Center.

Scott produced 20 unforgettable productions for MTC. Many earned awards recognizing the exceptional talents of their casts and creative teams. His vision brought unparalleled entertainment to Highlands, attracting top-tier performers and delighting thousands of local patrons and visitors. He created moments of joy, laughter, inspiration, and connection for thousands of patrons who filled the theater season after season.

“It has been an incredible honor to share my passion for theatre with the Highlands-Cashiers Plateau over the past five years,” says Scott. “I am tremendously proud of what we have accomplished together and grateful to the artists, staff, volunteers, patrons, and supporters who made that work possible. My greatest hope is that MTC continues the trajectory of success and artistic excellence we have worked so hard to build, bringing exceptional artists and unforgettable experiences to this community for many years to come.” 

As Scott concludes his five-year commitment here, he leaves a legacy of having transformed the theatrical landscape of Highlands through his passion, creativity, and dedication to artistic excellence. Thank you, Scott! He will work with the MTC Board through the end of the year to assist with the smooth transition to its next phase. Moving forward, Scott will continue pursuing artistic leadership opportunities that will allow him to expand his impact on artists, audiences, and the future of American theatre.

The Board invites everyone to the final performance of SHOWSTOPPERS!, where Scott’s significant contributions to MTC and the Highlands community will be celebrated. The Board thanks Scott immensely for the memories made together, and wishes him every success in the next chapter of his career.

During this time of transition, the Board will focus on planning Mountain Theatre Company’s next chapter, and looks forward to sharing its next steps with MTC patrons and supporters in the coming weeks.