Familiar Face, New Role: Meet Our New Theatre Director, Mr. Ralph Norwood

Mr. Norwood in one of his most recent performances.

We are thrilled to announce that Mr. Ralph Norwood has been named the new Theatre Director at First Assembly Christian School! Mr. Norwood is no stranger to FACS. His deep love for all of the arts, and passion for student growth have already made an impact in our community. Now, he steps into a new role—bringing with him a wealth of experience, creativity, and a clear vision for the future of our theatre program.

Mr. Norwood’s journey in theatre spans multiple decades and a wide range of experiences. A graduate of Christian Brothers University, he performed in four college productions, playing both major and minor roles in musicals and non-musicals alike. His background includes work in Memphis City Schools, Rossville Christian Academy, and Star Inc. in Somerville, TN, where he wore many hats—from casting and directing to set design, props, and even lighting operations. His past productions include A Christmas Carol, Peter Pan, The Wizard of Oz, Hamelot, and It’s a Wonderful Life, among many others.

When asked about his vision for the FACS theatre program, Mr. Norwood’s excitement was evident:

“I am very blessed and excited about becoming the new theatre director for FACS. I have always enjoyed directing theatre programs at my previous schools and love working with students to help them develop their acting skills to the fullest.”

His plans are both inspiring and intentional. With several long-time student actors graduating, Mr. Norwood is focused on growing the program by nurturing new talent—from high school and junior high to elementary students expressing interest in theatre. He also hopes to integrate students from the FACS band and choir, uniting the arts through collaboration in future productions.

More than just entertaining audiences, Mr. Norwood is committed to Biblical integration in every performance.

“We will strive to present the most entertaining of shows while at the same time making sure that the audiences become aware of the Christian qualities and morals that are reflected within the acting.”

That commitment extends beyond the stage. One of Mr. Norwood’s most exciting ideas is incorporating student-led skits into chapel services, giving theatre students an opportunity to use their gifts in ministry. Drawing from his experience performing Christian skits in churches and prisons, he believes these performances can leave lasting impressions and foster meaningful self-reflection in the student body.

This fall, FACS will present a Christmas-themed play (title to be revealed soon!), with plans already underway to involve the band and choir in creative ways that support our school-wide theme of unity.

Mr. Norwood also brings a strong sense of collaboration and shared leadership to the program. He’ll be working alongside Mr. Alexander and Mr. Cook to bring to life a dynamic season of performances.

“Since I have been at FACS, we have experienced fantastic entertainment through the theater department, both in musical and non-musical format. There is a high bar of excellence that is set and will continue to be our goal. The only way to reach that goal is through a team effort… I am both a team leader and a team player. I enjoy outside input and don't want my perspective to be the only one.”

Students can also expect to have a voice in the creative process. Mr. Norwood encourages his actors to dive deep into character development and bring their own creativity to the stage: “I want my actors to help develop the character into something they own… I want them to know the characters better than I do.”

As for what he’s most looking forward to? Everything.

“Working with a team of directors. Seeing my students step outside of their comfort zones. Teaching new high school and junior high students. Putting on a Christmas play. Seeing my actors teach chapel lessons through performance. Developing outstanding sets. But most of all—watching my student actors realize through audience appreciation and applause just how wonderfully they executed a show.”

Please join us in welcoming Mr. Norwood into this new role. The curtain is rising on a new chapter at FACS Theatre—and we can’t wait to see what’s next.