Gainesville High School has selected Tyra Wimpye as the next theater director. She will start her position at the beginning of the next school year.
An alumni of Gainesville High School, Wimpye looks forward to her return. She graduated from the high school in 2013 and was a drama student under the outgoing GHS theater director Pam Ware, who announced her retirement in November.
“I am so honored to have the opportunity to lead the program that developed this passion in me,” said Wimpye in a prepared press statement. “Pam Ware’s legacy will drive me to strive for excellence every day and continue to grow the program to be even more innovative, inclusive and inspiring with every performance.”
Wimpye is currently the theater director for Cherokee Bluff Middle and High School where she will wrap up the school year. She also led the Gainesville Middle School Drama Department from 2018 to 2021.
She has already received praise from Gainesville High School administration, who look forward to Wimpye’s planned improvements.
“Ms. Wimpye brings a unique balance of tradition and experience to our program,” said Jamie Green, principle of Gainesville High School. “We were impressed by her vision for the program to include more opportunities for technical theater and dance. She is passionate about this community and appreciates the legacy that will always surround Gainesville High’s Troupe 2445.”
Gainesville High School encourages students and the community to welcome Wimpye on Tuesday, March 8 at 6 p.m. at the Pam Ware Performing Arts Center. This welcoming event also coincides with the opening night of Anything Goes, directed by the outgoing Ware.
According to Gainesville City Schools Superintendent Dr. Jeremy Williams, students have a lot to look forward to under Wimpye’s leadership.
“The enthusiasm and passion that Ms. Wimpye has for students and theater is contagious,” said Dr. Williams. “I’ve seen Ms. Wimpye lead and get the most out of our Red Elephants. Anytime we can bring back our successful alumni to carry on the wonderful traditions of Gainesville, we will.”
