Samuel J. Richardson
FSPA Theatre Department Chair| Artistic Director, Flint Youth Theatre
Originally hailing from England, Samuel began their journey with Flint Youth Theatre (FYT) in 2006 as the Education Manager. Over the years, they have climbed the ranks, serving as FYT’s Education Director, Managing Director, and Education and Administrative Director before taking on their current role as Flint School of Performing Arts (FSPA) Theatre Department Chair and Artistic Director of FYT.
Samuel holds a Bachelor of Science in Theatre Arts from Lees-McRae College and a Master of Fine Arts in Drama and Theatre for the Young from Eastern Michigan University. With a passion for theatre education, Samuel teaches classes at the Flint School of Performing Arts and the Flint Cultural Center Academy, working with students as young as 4 years old through adults. Their classes foster creativity, confidence, and collaboration, inspiring a love for theatre across all age groups.
In addition to teaching, Samuel directs three fully staged FYT productions and three staged readings annually and works with the FIM Troubadours, contributing to script writing and directing. This work allows Samuel to mentor young performers in crafting dynamic, impactful performances that engage audiences and promote the arts within the community.
Dedicated to nurturing the next generation of artists, Samuel’s commitment extends beyond the classroom and theatre, as they are also a proud parent to three children who actively participate in FSPA classes. Samuel’s work continues to inspire and uplift the community, blending professional artistry with a lifelong dedication to education and youth development.