Rachel Rinehart

Rachel is a theatre educator, director, and stage manager with years of experience in both educational and professional theatre. Her passion for storytelling and performance began at a young age and quickly expanded into leadership roles behind the scenes. She began stage managing productions at just fifteen years old and started directing by the age of seventeen, developing a strong foundation in collaboration, organization, and creative leadership early in her career.

She earned her degree in Mass Media Communication from Florida College, where she received extensive training in lighting, audio engineering, and video production. This technical background has given her a well-rounded understanding of theatrical production and strengthened her ability to approach storytelling from both creative and technical perspectives. During her college years, she directed multiple one-act plays and short films, gaining experience in script analysis, actor coaching, production planning, and visual storytelling.

Following graduation, Rachel continued pursuing her passion for arts education by working with FL Drama Kids, where she taught theatre classes and introduced students to the foundations of performance, creativity, and stage presence. She has since expanded her work as a teacher through Christian Youth Theater and both Assistant Director and Stage Manager at Franklin Classical School, helping guide students through productions while fostering confidence, discipline, and teamwork.

In addition to her educational experience, Rachel has worked professionally with Nashville Repertory Theatre and Street Theatre Company, gaining valuable experience in professional rehearsal environments and production processes. Her work across educational, community, and professional theatre spaces has shaped her teaching philosophy: creating an encouraging and collaborative environment where students feel empowered to take creative risks, grow as performers, and discover the value of storytelling.

Through her combined experience in directing, stage management, technical theatre, and arts education, Rachel is dedicated to helping students develop not only theatrical skills, but also confidence, communication, creativity, and leadership that extend far beyond the stage. She is especially drawn to theatre because it provides an opportunity to show God’s love and bring light into dim places, giving students the boldness to serve Him, reflect His love, and use their gifts to impact others for His Kingdom.