The SMU Meadows School of the Arts has officially announced the appointment of acclaimed music director, conductor, and pianist Kimberly Grigsby as the inaugural Music Director of the Sexton Institute for Musical Theatre, effective August 1, 2025.
This prestigious role marks Grigsby’s return to her alma mater, where she will mentor the next generation of musical theatre artists starting in Fall 2026, following the completion of the new institute made possible by a $15 million endowment gift from the late G. Marlyne Sexton.
The Sexton Institute aims to redefine training for contemporary musical theatre, addressing the evolving demands of the industry by providing a curriculum focused not only on performance but also on the creation of new works.
In her position, Grigsby will train students to interpret and enhance storytelling through various musical elements, such as score, orchestration, and arrangement.
Her extensive professional network will also offer students valuable opportunities for real-world creative experiences.
With over three decades of experience spanning Broadway, opera, and concert stages, Grigsby’s accomplishments include collaborations with renowned figures like Bono and The Edge, David Byrne, Duncan Sheik, and Jeanine Tesori, among others.
Highlights of her Broadway music direction credits involve productions such as Days of Wine and Roses, Camelot (2023 Revival), and Spring Awakening.
Currently, this summer, she is leading as the music director for the world premieres of DOLLY: A True Original Musical, featuring music and lyrics by Dolly Parton, and Millions, with music and lyrics by Adam Guettel, both directed by Bartlett Sher.
Moreover, Grigsby is contributing to the development of a new musical based on Thelma and Louise, boasting music and lyrics by Neko Case and a book by Callie Khouri.
The Sexton Institute for Musical Theatre stands as a testament to G. Marlyne Sexton’s legacy as a philanthropist, businesswoman, and Tony-nominated producer.
This transformative gift will not only fund faculty positions—which includes the Director role currently held by Joel Ferrell—but also support program endowments and start-up costs necessary for its operation.
Aiming to cultivate 21st-century performers, the institute will provide an immersive conservatory-style training experience in acting, singing, and movement, while integrating a liberal arts education.
Students will also benefit from professional mentorship and collaborative opportunities to work on new musical projects in development.
Additionally, the Sexton Institute will engage with key organizations in the Dallas–Fort Worth arts community, including the Dallas Theater Center and Theatre Three, enhancing the practical educational experience for students.
The mission of the Sexton Institute is clear: to prepare students not only to perform but to create and conceptualize new works in musical theatre.
Participants will have the chance to gain hands-on experience collaborating with composers, lyricists, and creative teams, thus securing an early entrance into the dynamic field of musical development.
About SMU Meadows School of the Arts: established in 1969 and named after Algur H. Meadows, this institution is recognized as one of the leading arts education establishments in the nation.
Offering a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs across the visual, performing, and communication arts, the Meadows School is prominent for its emphasis on arts entrepreneurship and outreach, thriving as a creative hub in North Texas and beyond.
With the upcoming launch of the Sexton Institute in Fall 2026, SMU Meadows School of the Arts is set to become a premier training ground for emerging musical theatre professionals.
image source from：broadwayworld
