Tom Key is an American thespian, whose multifaceted talents have profoundly influenced the world of theatre. Throughout his illustrious career, he has worn various hats, exceling as an actor, producer, director, and playwright, leaving an indelible mark on the industry.
As the Artistic Director of Theatrical Outfit, a renowned performing arts institution based in downtown Atlanta, Tom Key served from 1995 to 2020. During his tenure, he skillfully steered the company's growth, transforming it into one of the city's most esteemed and respected theatrical entities.
Tom's illustrious career spans numerous productions, exceeding the century mark with an impressive repertoire that showcases his versatility and talent. His extensive body of work includes critically acclaimed performances at esteemed institutions such as Alliance Theatre, where he has made a lasting impact, The Atlanta Symphony Orchestra, which has provided a rich backdrop for his artistic expression, Kenny Leon's True Colors Theatre, a platform that has allowed him to shine, Arena Stage, a renowned hub for innovative storytelling, The Atlanta Opera, where he has brought operatic classics to life, The Atlanta Ballet, a company that has enabled him to explore the intersection of dance and drama, and Theatrical Outfit, a venue that has fostered his growth as a performer.
Some of his most notable performances include the thought-provoking "Art," a nuanced exploration of human connection, the poignant "Grapes of Wrath," a powerful portrayal of the American Dream, the witty and satirical "Candide," a clever deconstruction of optimism, the poignant and nostalgic "Woody Guthrie's American Song," a moving tribute to the legendary musician, and the timeless and enchanting "A Christmas Carol," a heartwarming celebration of the holiday season.
Tom, a skilled and accomplished director, has had the privilege of overseeing a diverse range of productions at Theatrical Outfit, a prestigious theatrical institution.
Some of his most notable credits include directing "Horton Foote's The Chase", a critically acclaimed production that received widespread recognition and acclaim from both audiences and critics alike.
Additionally, Tom's work on "Dividing the Estate", another production at Theatrical Outfit, resulted in significant critical acclaim and numerous award wins, further solidifying his reputation as a talented and accomplished director in the industry.
Through his work, Tom has demonstrated a keen understanding of the art of direction, showcasing his ability to bring complex stories and characters to life on stage with precision and sensitivity.
Tom's impressive repertoire extends far beyond his significant contributions to the world of theatre, as he has also successfully adapted numerous literary masterpieces for the stage. His notable adaptations include "C.S. Lewis On Stage", a thought-provoking production that brings the renowned author's work to life; "The Pilgrim's Progress", a classic tale of spiritual journey and self-discovery; and "The Moviegoer", a poignant exploration of the human experience.
In addition to his adaptations, Tom has also demonstrated his versatility as a playwright and performer by penning and presenting several original works. These innovative creations include "Leap", a bold and daring production that pushes the boundaries of storytelling; and "The Book of Will", a testament to his skill and artistry as a writer and performer.
Tom's professional endeavors have garnered a multitude of prestigious honors and distinctions, with the Governor's Award in the Humanities serving as a testament to his outstanding contributions to the field. Furthermore, he has received the Georgia Arts and Entertainment Legacy Award, a recognition of his lasting impact on the cultural landscape of the state. Additionally, his tireless service to the City of Atlanta has been formally acknowledged through three Mayoral proclamations, a notable tribute to his dedication and commitment to the community.
Tom Key is a highly acclaimed and dynamic actor, distinguished by his remarkable capacity to imbue his roles with a palpable sense of vitality and authenticity.
As observed by Creative Loafing, this exceptional thespian possesses an extraordinary quality, whereby even when remaining stationary, he exudes an aura of kinetic energy, akin to a divining rod quivering with an otherworldly intensity, as if the very air around him is electrified by his presence.
