Exploring the Artistic Vision of Northwest Arkansas with Shannon Jones, Theater Squared's Trailblazing Executive Director

About the Show:"We need art in our lives in order to be fully fulfilled.”  - Shannon Jones, Theater SquaredMeet Shannon Jones, the dynamic new executive director of Theater Squared, who's reshaping the arts scene in Northwest Arkansas with her unique blend of experience, passion, and visionary leadership.Background and Experience: Shannon Jones is the new leader of Theater Squared, armed with a BFA in stage management from the University of Central Florida. She has extensive experience in the arts, having worked as a freelancer across the East Coast.Journey to Northwest Arkansas: Initially hesitant about moving, Shannon was persuaded by Theater Squared's artistic director, Bob Ford, to explore opportunities in Fayetteville.Impact Since 2014: Since her arrival at Theater Squared in 2014, Shannon has significantly influenced the local arts community. She manages over 350 performances annually and leads the Schools Tour program, impacting children in Arkansas, Missouri, and Oklahoma.Community Engagement: Shannon's commitment to the arts and community engagement highlights her role as a transformative figure in Northwest Arkansas’s cultural landscape.What you will learn in this episode:Discover the transformative impact of Theater Squared on its community.Explore the power of community engagement in the arts and how it can create lasting connections.Uncover the unique partnership between Theater Squared and the Fayetteville Public Library and how it enriches the community.Delve into the annual production of A Christmas Carol and the heartwarming tradition it has become.Learn about Theater Squared's growth and community outreach plans, and how they shape the arts' future in their community.All this and more on this episode of the I am Northwest Arkansas podcast.  Important Links and Mentions on the Show*Email Theatre SquaredWebsite Theatre SquaredTheatre Squared on InstagramTheatre Squared on FacebookTheatre Squared on YouTubeThis episode is sponsored by*Signature Bank of Arkansas "Community Banking at its Best!" Northwest Arkansas Council - "Life Works Here!" Try ONBoardNWA.com Today! *Note: some of the resources mentioned may be affiliate links. This means we get paid a commission (at no extra cost to you) if you use that link to make a purchase.Connect more with I am Northwest Arkansas:Grab our Newsletter Email Us at [email protected] With Our Facebook Page Connect With Us on Threads Connect With Our Instagram Connect With Our LinkedIn PageJoin The Facebook Group Connect with our Fearless Host, Randy Wilburn on LinkedInThank you for listening to this I am Northwest Arkansas podcast episode. We showcase businesses, culture, entrepreneurship, and life in the Ozarks. Consider donating to our production team to keep this podcast running smoothly. Donate to I Am Northwest Arkansas Mentioned in this episode:Winetopia 2026Winetopia 2026 Date: Friday, October 16th Time: 7-10pm Place: Stonebreaker Hotel on Markham hill Winetopia is Restore Humanity’s biggest annual fundraiser and brings together the very best of Northwest Arkansas (restaurants, artisans, small businesses, and (community members) to support our work. While the event raises essential funds for children in Kenya, its heartbeat is entirely local. There are over 100 local businesses who contribute auction items, regional chefs and beverage makers who showcase their craft, and the hundreds of residents gathering to celebrate community generosity. Winetopia strengthens local partnerships, elevates homegrown talent, and reinforces Northwest Arkansas's identity as a place where global compassion is fueled by local collaboration. Winetopia is a beautiful demonstration of how a united local community can create life-changing impact for children and families worldwide. Winetopia 2026