Harrison Butler

As Artistic Director of HART Theatre, I’m honored to help lead this company as we launch into our next chapter. Over the past few years, my work with HART has focused on shaping seasons that balance beloved classics, contemporary favorites, and bold new voices,  all with the goal of serving a diverse and ever-growing audience in Hillsboro and beyond.

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I’ve had the pleasure of directing productions such as Brighton Beach Memoirs, Native Gardens, and Mornings’ at Seven, and of supporting HART’s expansion into new work development, including hosting the Fertile Ground Festival of New Works at HART and nurturing projects like the world premiere of The "Amazing" Séance Sisters and the upcoming exciting World Premiere of The Pros and Cons of Killing Your Husband as well as other original pieces. This growing commitment to new work has helped position HART as a home for playwrights, actors, and directors who want to take artistic risks in a supportive, community-focused environment.

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My background includes an MFA in Theatre with an emphasis in Voice Studies from the University of Texas at Austin and a BA in Theatre from the University of Northern Colorado. I’ve been fortunate to act, teach, direct, and collaborate with theatre makers across the country, and those experiences continue to shape my approach to storytelling, ensemble-building, and mentorship here at HART.

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The Pacific Northwest is where I feel most at home, whether I’m out in the woods or working alongside the incredible volunteers, artists, and staff who make this theatre possible. I’m deeply grateful for the unwavering support of my sister, her partner, and my mother, who have always encouraged my love of the theatrical arts.

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As we forward, I’m excited to continue HART’s “renaissance,” strengthening our role as a cultural anchor in Downtown Hillsboro and keeping HART a place of community, creativity, and connection for everyone who walks through our doors.