Carol MacLeod

macleodTo sports fans, she is the wife of John MacLeod, former coach of the Phoenix Suns.

To theater lovers, she is so much more than that. She is the co-founder of two of the most dynamic theater companies the Valley has possessed : Actors Theatre of Arizona (now Actors Theatre) and Theatre Artists Studio.

Not to mention one of the finest acting teachers in the country.

Carol, who is president of the Studio board, has been a theatre professional for more than 40 years. She began her career in New York as a stage and television actress but then extended her love of theatre into the areas of producing, directing and teaching as well.

As a Valley resident, Carol was instrumental in founding Actors Theatre of Phoenix and served as its first Artistic and Managing Director. She also served as the Director of the Arizona Theatre Company’s Encompass (Outreach) Program and was an original member of the Phoenix Arts Commission.

Teaching has always been an important part of Carol’s career. She taught at the American Academy of Dramatic Arts in New York City and in Phoenix for the Phoenix Center for the Performing Arts, The Arizona Theatre Company, The Actors Theatre and The Herberger Theater Center’s “Stages” Program.

Prior to her return to Phoenix in 2000, she was a member of the faculty at the University of Notre Dame for seven years both in the Department of Theatre and the Department of English.

For the past six years. she served as Fine Arts Coordinator at Xavier College Preparatory developing staff and curriculum for their Fine Arts Program. At present she is teaching and producing at The Studio.

Carol and John MacLeod at a 1975 dinner celebrating the All-Star Game in Phoenix. (Photo courtesy of Carol MacLeod)
Carol and John MacLeod at a 1975 dinner celebrating the All-Star Game in Phoenix. (Photo courtesy of Carol MacLeod)