Chad Bradford
Director of Children’s Theatre & Performing Arts, Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts
BEST CAREER MOMENT SO FAR
Watching families and children discover something new about themselves and the world through theater — and seeing AMFA’s sold-out houses filled with laughter and joy — is profoundly rewarding.
LESSON I LEARNED THE HARD WAY
Passion alone isn’t enough. Success in theater requires patience, collaboration and the willingness to navigate challenges without losing sight of the story or the people you serve.
WHAT KEEPS ME COMING BACK TO MY JOB EVERY DAY
Stories are at the heart of being human — how we learn, grow and thrive. My team shares one ethos: Every child matters, every audience member is a guest and every story carries meaning worth celebrating.
BEST ADVICE I EVER RECEIVED
Approach every task as if it’s the most important thing in the world, and, as my father said, “lay it to the side” and give stress and ideas time to settle and marinate before acting.
BIGGEST CHALLENGES IN MY CAREER
My greatest challenge is surrender, after the work and worry, trusting that creativity will take flight. The magic of theater lives in that moment of release, where inspiration and artistry breathe life into the story.
IN THE DETAILS:
Hometown: Little Rock
Favorite Local Purchase: I love buying gifts at The Green Corner Store
Little Rock’s Hidden Gem: Ristorante Capeo
Sunday Routine: Breakfast for the babies, church at Quapaw Quarter United Methodist and (usually) off to rehearsal
Favorite Local Dish: The Spicy Honey Pizza at Raduno and the great specials at Four Quarter Bar.
Hobbies: Writing and playing music, basketball
501.372.4000 | cbradford@arkmfa.org
501 E. Ninth St., Little Rock
Facebook: Chad Bradford | Instagram: @chad.badford.one | LinkedIn: Chad Bradford