Donald Cleland

Donald is excited to be once again directing a youth production at Theatre in the Grove. He has a long history with the theatre both as an actor and director. He’s performed in many plays/musicals here, most notibly The Musical Man (Harold Hill), Hello Dolly (Cornileus Hackle), The Robber Bridegroom (L:il Harp), and The Wizard of Oz (The Cowardly Lion). He has directed many youth productions at TITG going back into the 80’s. Some of them are The Velveteen Rabbit, Tom Sawyer, Beauty and the Beast Jr., and Frog and Toad Are Friends. Donald has also directed youth musicals at HART Theatre, such as Lion King Jr., Mattilda Jr., and Suesscial Jr,. to name a few. He has peformed in productions at other community theaters. One of his favorites was playing the role of Willy Clark in The Sunshine Boys. However his most enjoyable role he gets to play every Holiday Season is the man in red himself, Santa Claus. He has played that character at Sleighbells in Sherwood for over 30 years. Donald has been a long time educator in his hometown of Hillsboro where he and his wife, Sonja raised 3 sons and now have 4 wonderful grandchildren. In addition to directing/acting Donald enjoys spending time with his grankids, working with his dogs, hiking and gardening. He hopes you enjoy the show and thanks Sonja for dealing with the dogs while he is at rehearsals.