Behind the Curtain: The Factory Theatre’s Creative Community

Published: March 20, 2026

Author: Lydia Cahill

Just down the street from Greenville University’s main campus stands an unassuming brick building labeled “The Kelsey Building.” However, what the
normal passerby may not realize is that history, community, and vibrant
performances wait just inside the door. The structure, while serving several uses,
is also the home of Greenville’s Factory Theatre.

Gret Tindall, production manager of the Factory Theatre, described how the program has adapted and evolved over the years, as well as how she became involved with the group.

“The Factory Theatre has been around for 53 years, but after the pandemic, a group of students approached my supervisor at the time, Ross Baker, to revive the program,” Tindall said. “It had been an academic program until Cecilia Ulmert retired, at which point it became a student program. After the pandemic, they needed someone to serve as the program manager. Ross knew I had been involved in community theatre for years and asked if I wanted to take on the role.”

Tindall said she had never held a behind-the-scenes position before becoming manager. In her current role, she ensures that all technical elements of productions run smoothly.

“I had served on boards in community theatres, performed on stage, and directed,” Tindall said. “Now I’ve been able to learn everything that happens behind the scenes that I wasn’t part of before.”

Community Connection

When students choose Greenville University, they also choose to become part of the Greenville community. The Factory Theatre helps bridge the gap between students and local residents, creating meaningful connections beyond campus.

“Now that we’ve reopened the theatre, it’s become a community theatre,” Tindall explained. “It’s still connected to GU and still a student organization, but it’s also open to anyone in the area over the age of 16. That creates a great opportunity for students to connect with others.”

Tindall reflected on how quickly theatre brings people together from different backgrounds.

“The theatre brings together a new director, community members, and students,” she said. “Six to eight weeks later, you have a full production and memories that last for years.”

Anna Tooley, a junior history major and Factory Theatre member, shared how the experience has helped her build relationships.

“During our last production, a community member and I worked together in the booth doing tech,” Tooley said. “Community members and students worked side by side to run props.”

She added that the experience has led to lasting friendships.

“We become friends and recognize each other around town. I’ve built friendships with community members I wouldn’t have met otherwise,” she said.

A Powerful Production Experience

Through the Factory Theatre, students learn new skills and step outside their comfort zones.

“I’ve had students come in and say, ‘I’ve never done this before. I don’t know how to do it,’” Tindall said. “By the time they leave, they’re confident enough to jump in and take on new challenges. It’s an incredible transformation.”

Tindall pointed to Tooley as an example. When Tooley first joined, she had no experience running lighting and felt nervous about trying it. With guidance and practice, she quickly gained confidence.

“She jumped in and is now essentially our light expert,” Tindall said.

Students can participate in every aspect of production, including acting, lighting, set design, and even writing original plays.

Tindall said she is especially excited about the program’s recent growth.

“I’m proud of everything we’ve done, but I’m especially excited that we expanded the season this year by adding a student-directed show and a winter break production,” she said.

Several productions have stood out in recent years due to their complexity and success.

“One of the most memorable shows was The Play That Goes Wrong,” Tindall said. “It was technically challenging and entirely student-directed and produced.”

Another notable production was The Drowsy Chaperone, directed by Chris Borwick, which received strong audience feedback.

Tooley also highlighted the impact of strong leadership in productions.

“We had Lorna Gaffney and Joanna Boyd-Wilhite direct Arsenic and Old Lace,” she said. “They built an incredible team for both the cast and set design.”

Faith in the Factory

The Factory Theatre also provides opportunities for students to grow in their faith through community and shared experiences.

“The theatre provides an outlet for fellowship, which is an important part of the Christian faith,” Tooley said. “It creates a space for connection that goes beyond traditional settings.”

Tindall emphasized the broader importance of the arts in students’ lives.

“It’s important to have something creative and enriching,” she said. “Work is important, but without creativity, it can feel like you’re just going through the motions. I’m proud that the Factory Theatre is a place where people can grow and belong.”

Tooley agreed, noting the importance of creative outlets.

“It gives people a place to step away from stress and express themselves,” she said.

Behind the curtain of the Factory Theatre is a community of actors, technicians, writers, and creators who continue to carry forward a tradition of creativity, collaboration, and faith within Greenville and beyond.