Jul 21, 2025
In the small yet vibrant town of Stanley, Daughter of the Stars Theater stands as a shining example of what dedicated community members can achieve with passion and ingenuity. Recently, Janet Michael from The Valley Today had a conversation with key figures from the theater to uncover the latest happenings at this blossoming cultural center.
Gina Hilliard, President of the Luray/Page Chamber of Commerce, kicked off the conversation, reflecting on a busy summer involving the state softball tournament. Despite the heat and long hours, the hard work paid off as local teams walked away with impressive titles. This local success story transitioned into the introduction of Patrick Burns, Director of Operations for Daughter of the Stars Theater, who joined the Zoom call along with Colton Wolf, a board member and the theater’s Director of Communications.
The discussion quickly revealed exciting developments at the theater. Patrick shared significant strides forward since the theater’s last appearance on the show in May 2024, including the addition of functional bathrooms and the beginning of an ambitious new project: an in-house restaurant called Nighthawks, modeled after the iconic Edward Hopper painting. The restaurant aims to elevate the theater-going experience, providing a seamless blend of dining and entertainment.
Not stopping at infrastructural improvements, Patrick announced the theater's first major grant-funded program: a cigar box guitar summer camp for middle schoolers, aimed at immersing youths in local Appalachian culture by building and playing their own instruments. This initiative aligns perfectly with the theater's mission to engage, educate, and inspire its audience, as he emphasized the importance of hands-on learning and cultural preservation.
Patrick highlighted the educational and communal aspects of the theater’s YouTube presence, which features videos about notable historical events, such as the Shenandoah Valley's pivotal role in the 1944 Normandy Invasion. These videos, gaining significant traction online, underscore the theater’s broader mission to make local history accessible and engaging.
Expanding on the theater's multifaceted role in the community, Colton spoke to the unique challenges and rewards of connecting Stanley’s middle schoolers with rich cultural experiences often overlooked by larger organizations. This commitment to serving a demographic often left out of educational programs further highlights the theater’s inclusive and forward-thinking approach.
Engagement wasn’t just limited to the theater’s internal activities. Gina and Janet further discussed the numerous benefits of being a chamber member, emphasizing how connections and community involvement can accelerate local businesses' growth. The Luray/Page Chamber extends support in various forms, from marketing assistance to grant endorsement letters, aiding endeavors like Patrick’s theater expansion.
The conversation concluded with a reminder of the many resources available to small business owners in Stanley. Upcoming Chamber events like the Women in Business social and various educational seminars were promoted, illustrating the community’s vibrant and supportive business environment.
In wrapping up, Hilliard and the theater representatives reiterated their commitment to fostering a thriving local culture through persistent community engagement and innovative programs. The Daughter of the Stars Theater continues its journey as more than just a place for shows; it stands as a dynamic cultural hub that encourages learning, creativity, and community spirit.