South Bay Musical Theatre Names Michael Paul Hirsch as Executive Director
Performer, tech leader, and longtime volunteer to assume full-time leadership role July 1
Saratoga, CA, June 30, 2025 — South Bay Musical Theatre (SBMT) is pleased to announce the appointment of Michael Paul Hirsch as its new Executive Director, effective July 1, 2025. Hirsch brings to the role a unique blend of artistic passion and professional expertise, having served the company for years as a performer, volunteer, and most recently as Board Chair and de facto Executive Director.
The decision follows a recent strategic planning retreat by SBMT’s Board of Directors, where members reaffirmed the organization’s mission to connect and delight the community through inclusive, collaborative, and high-quality theatrical productions. Hiring a full-time Executive Director marks a significant step in SBMT’s evolution, providing consistent, focused leadership to guide the company’s future growth.
“I’m honored to serve SBMT in this expanded capacity,” said Hirsch. “This company has given me so much—as a performer, as a community member, and as a creative partner. I look forward to building on our strengths, supporting our artists, and helping ensure that live theater continues to thrive in the South Bay for years to come.”
Hirsch has served as SBMT’s Board Chair since 2020 and has been instrumental in shaping the organization’s direction through the challenges and transitions of recent years. A familiar face on the SBMT stage, he recently has appeared as Andrew MacLaren in Brigadoon; J. Bruce Ismay in Titanic; Jimmy Smith in No, No, Nanette; Larry in Company; Roscoe Dexter in Singin’ in the Rain; and the entire D’Ysquith family in A Gentleman’s Guide to Love & Murder. His other local performing credits include lead roles in The Will Rogers Follies (WVLO Musical Theatre) and Big Fish (Sunnyvale Community Players).
Offstage, Hirsch has led product teams at top Silicon Valley companies including Shutterfly, Yahoo!, eHealth, and Suzy. He attended Michigan State University’s graduate program for Theatre and balances his professional life with family time, board games, and training as a kendo black belt. He and his family are residents of Santa Clara.
“Michael’s business acumen and deep love of theater make him the perfect person to help us grow while staying grounded in our values,” said Walter M. Mayes, SBMT’s Artistic Director. “It’s a joy to collaborate with someone who understands both the creative and administrative sides of producing theatre. With Michael focused on operations, fundraising, and strategic leadership, I’m excited to concentrate on the artistic vision of the company.”
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