Volunteer Spotlight – Karen Todd

Volunteer Spotlight is a monthly feature where we highlight an Academy Theatre volunteer. This month’s volunteer is Karen Todd.

What is your name?

Karen Todd

What is your role title at The Academy Theatre and what duties does your role entail?

I’m the Director’s [Angel Arredondo] wife, so being supportive of Angel is my role. My main purpose is supporting Angel and all that it takes to do what he does. I’ve always said that people don’t know how much he does. My favorite [way to help] is working in the box office because I get to meet everyone.

Angel Arredondo and Karen Todd in 2021

How long have you been in that role?

Since he started the group 21 years ago. Our son was 12 at the time and Angel said he would never forgive himself if he didn’t start the group for our son.

Bein married to Angel, you have a unique perspective on The Academy Theatre and how much it’s grown. Tell us about the early days of TAT and how you discovered Angel’s passion for theatre.

On our first date, Angel was telling me how he would put on plays for his extended family. He did his own costumes and lots of people would attend. That’s how I learned about his interest. I was attracted to the passion.

Donna Kevan, left, and Karen Todd, right, rehearse for the play Jukebox Diner in 2018

Have you acted in any plays at The Academy Theatre? What about other performances, such as the Haunted Pirate Ship or a comedy show?

Oh my gosh, I’ve never counted how many. I absolutely love it. I had never done any acting before. But I really enjoy it. It’s the greatest experience. I have loved it so much. There is such a strong sense of community there. I have done the standup class as well. It’s totally different but lots of fun.

From left to right: Kris Copeland, Karen Todd, and John Philbin in a Reader’s Theatre performance of The Old People Are Revolting in 2025.

What is your favorite recurring event at The Academy Theatre and why? For example, bingo, youth vocal shows, adult plays, Cinesylum, etc.

One thing I like is Angel has so many new things [he tries]. We’ve done drive in movies and karaoke nights. There’s the thrift store [days] as well. There’s always something unique to get involved with. And the annual festival is always fun. Bingo is always a fun night. I’m shocked at the variety of things he has.

Karen performing her standup comedy routine in August 2025

What is your favorite memory from The Academy Theatre?

My favorite play was Red Hot Mommas. We’ve done it several times. The role I played was hilarious. I was really proud of myself for doing standup comedy [as well]. It took a lot of courage. There are so many other favorite memories. A lot of my favorite memories are [times when I was] proud of Angel. He’s created this sense of community and provided an opportunity to everyone. One night he came home and said, “I think I’m going create a girl’s theatre.” And then [later] an adult group. Then the summer group. It’s a well kept secret that more people need to know about. I love to watch how Angel will solve a challenge with his creativity and genius. Oftentimes he’ll have an epiphany in the middle of the night. One of the most exciting things was when he was accepted into the Writers Guild. The other thing that amazes me is his persistence. We lost the building at one point, but he didn’t give up. Him keeping charity alive is what I admire.

Thank you, Karen, for all that you do for The Academy Theatre!

Karen after performing in Here Come the Brides in 2016