SPOTLIGHT: Tim d’Auteuil, interim executive director

By Jane Hill
​
A childhood in Maine, four years in the Air Force, and a degree in theater from Virginia Commonwealth University explain why Tim d’Auteuil bears no trace of a Texas accent from his more recent career years there. That East coast beginning also claims responsibility for his French surname, which he directs us to pronounce “DO-Tay”

During a university production of the musical Carnival, Tim, on stage, noticed the talented violinist in the pit orchestra who played the solo “Love Makes the World Go Round” and a permanent partnership was formed between the musician, now wife Marilyn, and the actor.  Following graduation Marilyn accepted a position in Fort Worth, Texas, while husband Tim tried to find fulfilling work as an actor while holding down various jobs. Landing a position as a teacher in a Montessori School, Tim felt at home and began to pursue a degree in education. Thus was determined the remainder of his career.

Eventually the couple raised two sons, and continued their avid interests in outdoor activities, especially backpacking. While hiking at Mt. Rainier ten years ago, Marilyn and Tim met a couple from Winthrop with whom they kept in touch and visited.  

Both retired from their careers by 2021, and began the realization of their dream of extensive travel. They sold their home, unloaded possessions, and bought a camper van and enjoyed the next two and a half years traveling around the US. Knowing about our valley through their friends and travels here, Tim and Marilyn decided a year ago to stop here and make a home. What a lucky choice for us! Avid outdoors people, they relish the opportunities for all of those activities here as well as the arts scene here and the caliber of interesting people. Tim was thrilled to feel welcomed into three roles on the Merc stage in his first year here.  

Wishing to give back to the community, Tim joined the Board of Directors of the Merc Playhouse, and at his initial meeting was asked if he would consider stepping in as Interim Executive Director.  He said “YES!” and has proceeded to learn a whole new job in a very short time.  

Join us in a grand welcome to Tim and Marilyn d’Auteuil!

---