The Washington Center for the Performing Arts has officially renamed its Star Dressing Room in honor of Roger McIntosh, recognizing the organization’s “deep appreciation for four decades of service, care, commitment, and the philosophy that guided his work,” according to a news release.
This dedication celebrates McIntosh’s extraordinary legacy and lasting impact on the Washington Center, the artists it serves and the greater South Sound arts community, Washington Center said in a news release.
In addition, the Washington Center announced Roger McIntosh has been selected as the 2026 Excellence in the Arts, Commitment to the Arts awardee.
He will be honored at the Washington Center’s annual gala on March 7.
The annual Award for Commitment to the Arts recognizes outstanding commitment to the arts through volunteerism, financial support, leadership, or advocacy by individuals or organizations based in the greater South Sound region.
McIntosh has served as production manager at the Washington Center since its inception in 1985 and is transitioning to personal adventures after 40 years of dedicated service to the performing arts in Thurston County. Hired just before the Center opened to the public in September 1985, he has been instrumental in shaping the technical excellence, professionalism, and welcoming spirit that define the venue today, the release stated.
“Roger has truly been the heart and soul of the Washington Center since its very beginning,” longtime board member Dr. Alison Vega said. “His leadership and steadfast integrity have shaped every interaction and made those of us lucky enough to train or work with him better for it.”
Beyond his work at the Center, McIntosh served as adjunct faculty at The Evergreen State College, teaching lighting design and mentoring emerging technical theater professionals. Since 1985, he has also been the lighting designer for Ballet Northwest, including “The Nutcracker” and all major productions, a role he plans to continue, according to the release.
McIntosh is widely recognized as a generous mentor who helped build a strong and inclusive technical theater community in the South Sound. He fostered an environment where emerging professionals were supported, collaboration was valued, and hard work was rewarded. Many artists and technicians credit him with giving them both opportunity and confidence at critical moments in their careers.
“The naming of the Star Dressing Room stands as a tribute to the steady leadership, care, and commitment that have been the foundation and heartbeat of the Washington Center since its inception,” Washington Center said in a news release.
