Arts in rural America can be challenging, but many talented individuals take on that challenge and create incredible communities, performances, and programs. The Theatre program at Northeast Alabama Community College is one of these places, filled with students and community members who dedicate themselves to multiple shows every year that serve as a shining light for our little corner of the world. This program thrives under the direction of Kayleigh Smith, a Rainsville native and NACC alum who holds a Master’s of Arts in Theatre from Regent University and was hired as Director of Theatre here in 2019. Kayleigh’s strength, creativity, and dedication have not only shaped this program but have also paved the way for future generations of women in theatre. I hope you enjoy hearing from her as much as I did.
Can you tell me a little bit about yourself and your background
I'm Kayleigh Smith, born and raised in Rainsville, AL. While I’ve lived in a few different cities across Alabama, I ultimately chose to return to my hometown to be close to family and serve my community as the Director of Theatre at Northeast Alabama Community College. Theatre has been a part of my life for as long as I can remember, and I feel incredibly lucky to do what I love every day alongside people who inspire me. I have a wonderful family and an incredible group of friends, and I’m deeply grateful for both.
What was it like growing up as a woman in the South? Do you feel like you have any advantages or disadvantages because of where you live?
There was a time when I longed to live in a big city, where opportunities seemed more abundant than in a rural area. However, as I’ve gotten older, I’ve come to truly appreciate growing up in the South. I love the slower pace and the sense of community that comes with it. As an instructor and theatre director, I have the privilege of shaping young minds and showing them that while there’s a vast world full of incredible opportunities, there’s also immense value in staying and making an impact in your own community. You don’t have to leave the South to live a big, fulfilling life—you can build one right where you are.
What woman has been most influential to you?
Oh, I have so many—it’s hard to choose! First and foremost, my mom, Michele Smith. She has taught me that the loudest person in the room isn’t necessarily the best leader. She leads with grace, takes care of those around her, and is endlessly passionate and creative. She inspires me every day.
Another woman who made a profound impact on me is Dr. Ellen Peck, one of my college theatre professors. Until I met her, most of the women in my life were married with children, and then here was this incredible woman in her 30s—single, childfree, and thriving in an amazing theatre career. She was (and still is) so cool to me. She showed me that success comes in many different forms, and there’s no one right way to build a fulfilling life.
Have any women in your life faced unique struggles or triumphs that impacted you?
Absolutely. The women in my life have faced both struggles and triumphs that have deeply influenced me. My mom, Michele Smith, has always been a pillar of strength and grace. I’ve watched her navigate challenges with resilience, always putting others before herself while still pursuing her own passions. She’s shown me what it means to be a leader—through her strength and kindness.
I’ve also been shaped by the women I’ve worked with in theatre. Theatre can be a tough industry, especially for women, and I’ve seen incredibly talented, hardworking women fight to have their voices heard and their work respected. Their perseverance has inspired me to advocate for myself and for others, ensuring that young women in my program know their worth and have the confidence to take up space in any room they walk into.
And of course, my students themselves constantly remind me of the power of determination. I’ve seen young women overcome self-doubt, financial hardship, and personal struggles to chase their dreams. Watching them grow and succeed is one of the greatest joys of my career. Their triumphs remind me why I do what I do.
What challenges have you faced as a woman, either in your career or in your community?
As a woman in leadership, I’ve certainly noticed that I’m treated differently than the man who held this position before me. While I approach my role with the same dedication and commitment, I don’t always receive the same level of respect. I’ve had men in the community speak to me in ways that were downright awful simply because they didn’t agree with my decisions—decisions I stand by wholeheartedly.
That being said, I believe there is strength in softness. I don’t have to be the loudest person in the room to lead effectively. I trust in the choices I make, knowing they are rooted in what’s best for my students, my program, and my community. One of my biggest priorities is ensuring that our theatre remains a safe, welcoming place for everyone, and I won’t waver in that mission—no matter how much pushback I receive.
Have you seen differences in how women of different backgrounds are treated in the South?
Yes, I have. While all women face challenges, the South—like many places—does not always treat all women equally. Women of different racial, socioeconomic, and cultural backgrounds often experience additional barriers that I, as a white woman, don’t have to navigate in the same way. Women of color are frequently expected to work harder for the same level of respect and recognition, and women from lower-income backgrounds often face systemic obstacles that limit their opportunities.
Trans women, in particular, face an incredible amount of discrimination, both overt and subtle. They are often excluded from spaces meant to empower women and are subjected to harmful rhetoric that questions their very identity. I believe that all women deserve respect, dignity, and safety, and that includes trans women.
In theatre, I strive to create a space where everyone feels valued and seen. Representation matters, and it’s important to acknowledge these disparities while working to ensure that all voices are heard and uplifted. I know I still have learning and growing to do, but I believe real change comes from actively listening, supporting, and advocating for one another.
Did you feel pressure to fit into traditional gender roles growing up? How has that changed over time?
Growing up in the South, there was definitely an expectation that I would follow a traditional path—get married, have children, and center my life around family. And for a long time, I assumed that was what I wanted because it was what I saw modeled around me.
As I’ve grown older, I’ve realized that my life doesn’t have to follow that script. I’ve made the decision not to have children, which is very different from how I felt when I was younger. And while I’m still open to marriage or finding a partner, it’s no longer the central focus of my life. My happiness and fulfillment come from my work, my passions, and the people I choose to surround myself with.
There’s so much freedom in stepping away from expectations and creating a life that feels authentic to me. I love that I get to shape my own story, and I hope other women—especially young women—know they have that same power.
How do you feel about the balance between tradition and progress for women in the South?
I think there’s a delicate balance between tradition and progress for women in the South. There are aspects of Southern tradition that I deeply appreciate—like the sense of community, hospitality, and the value placed on family. But at the same time, many of those traditions have historically been tied to rigid expectations for women, limiting our roles and opportunities.
Progress doesn’t mean rejecting tradition entirely; it means making space for women to define their own paths. Some women find joy and fulfillment in traditional roles, and that’s wonderful. Others, like myself, choose a different path—one that prioritizes career, creativity, or personal growth outside of marriage and motherhood. Both choices should be equally valid and respected.
I believe we’re seeing real progress, but there’s still work to be done in ensuring that all women in the South feel empowered to live authentically—without judgment, pressure, or limitation.
If you could go back and give your younger self advice, what would you say?
I would tell my younger self to trust her instincts and stop worrying so much about what other people think. You don’t have to fit into a mold or follow a timeline that doesn’t feel right for you. Your worth isn’t defined by whether you’re married or have children, and you are allowed to build a life that makes you happy, not one that simply checks society’s boxes. I’d remind her that she is capable, creative, and stronger than she realizes. Most of all, I’d tell her to soak up every moment of joy—whether it’s on stage, surrounded by friends and family, or lost in a book. Life is full of adventure, love, and beauty, and you are meant to experience all of it.
What advice would you give to future generations of women?
Build a life that feels right for you, not one dictated by society’s expectations. Your choices—whether in career, family, or adventure—are valid and worthy of respect. Stand firm in your decisions, knowing that strength comes in many forms, including kindness and authenticity. Surround yourself with people who lift you up, and never forget that you are capable, resilient, and enough—exactly as you are.
What stories about Southern women do you think should be told more often?
I think the stories of Southern women who pushed for change and didn’t let their circumstances define them should be told more often. Dorothy Height is a perfect example. She was born in the South and became a major leader in the Civil Rights Movement, but so many people don’t realize just how much she did behind the scenes. She wasn’t just a supporter—she was a powerhouse, working for racial and gender equality at a time when both were massive hurdles.
Her story, like so many other Southern women’s stories, is about strength in silence—about shaping history without necessarily being in the spotlight. I think her journey reminds us that progress often comes from the quiet, determined voices that stand up for what’s right. I'd love for more people to hear about women like her who fought for real change, not for fame, but because they believed in a better world.
How do you influence other women (students, family members, community, etc..) to value women/girls?
I try to lead by example and create spaces where women and girls feel valued and heard. In my role as an instructor and theatre director, I make it a priority to foster an environment that encourages women to take leadership roles, speak their minds, and pursue their passions.
I also emphasize the importance of self-worth and empowerment in my work, helping my students and community understand that women can—and should—be unapologetically ambitious, creative, and confident. At the same time, I work to create a culture of mutual respect where all voices are valued.
What do you think are some things women can do to empower other women/girls in their community?
I think it's really important to celebrate each other’s achievements, both big and small. Acknowledging and appreciating the hard work and accomplishments of other women helps build a culture of support. Women can also advocate for one another by providing opportunities, whether in the workplace, community projects, or in education. By standing together and advocating for fairness and equality, women can make a lasting impact.
Do you have anything else you would like to share with us? Either a personal note, inspiration, or anything else?
I just want to say how much I believe in the power of women to create real change—whether in their communities, workplaces, or in their own lives. Every time a woman supports another woman, whether through words or actions, it creates a ripple effect that touches more lives than we realize. We have so much strength, creativity, and resilience within us, and when we come together, there’s nothing we can’t achieve.
I also want to remind everyone that we don’t have to fit into any one mold of what a woman should be. We are all unique, and that’s something to celebrate! Whether you’re pursuing a career, raising a family, or carving your own path, you are enough just as you are. Keep pushing for what you believe in, take pride in your journey, and always remember that you have the power to inspire others along the way. Let’s continue to lift each other up—because when women rise together, we all rise.
Thank you, Kayleigh, for sharing your thoughts with us!
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