Sept 29, 2026 – Bedford Playhouse is pleased to share two leadership updates as we continue to grow our programming, audiences, and impact in the community.
Daphne Viders has been named Executive Director, following her service as Interim Executive Director and, previously, Director of Development. A longtime Bedford resident and active community leader, Daphne brings deep local ties to the role, along with extensive nonprofit leadership and fundraising experience and years of service to organizations throughout the Bedford and Northern Westchester community. In her new role, she will lead the Playhouse’s overall strategy, operations, fundraising, and continued growth as a cultural arts center and community gathering place.
“I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to lead an institution I care so deeply about,” said Viders. “There is tremendous energy at the Playhouse right now, and I look forward to working alongside our talented staff, Board, supporters, and community to build on that momentum and help shape what comes next.”
The Playhouse is also delighted to welcome Rob Cavenagh as Production Director, a new leadership role supporting the continued expansion of live programming and the overall Playhouse experience. A 26-year Bedford resident and longtime community leader, Rob brings decades of experience in the music industry, marketing, and digital development, as well as a longstanding connection to the Playhouse itself. For the past six years, he has created and led Listen to the Film, a popular Playhouse series spanning 18 films and celebrating the intersection of music and cinema.
In his new role, Rob will oversee live event production and operations, working across music, author talks, performances, facilities, and guest experience to help ensure that the energy and quality audiences experience on our stages extends throughout the Playhouse.
Together, Daphne and Rob bring professional expertise, deep community roots, and years of firsthand connection to Bedford Playhouse as they help lead the organization into its next chapter—expanding the ways we entertain, inspire, educate, and bring our community together.
