For this Community Spotlight we shine a little extra attention on Benjamin Griffith, the board chairperson at Oakwood Summer Theatre.
Suggested to us for a spotlight by Oakwood staff, Ben has served as the organization’s chairperson for the past two years, following the retirement of long-standing Managing Director Thomas Mason.
A lifelong supporter and participant in the arts, Ben has been an integral part of Oakwood for decades, serving on the Board of Directors over a span of around 10 years, appearing in numerous productions over our 46-season history. Beyond performing, he has contributed in nearly every capacity imaginable: building sets, running lights and sound, maintaining technical equipment, stage managing, and helping to sustain our vital partnership with the local community college.
Ben’s passion for expanding the arts in Salem County is unmatched. His vision for Oakwood’s growth began taking shape this past season with the introduction of several new initiatives including an opera production of Hansel and Gretel in November and our first-ever radio show, Vintage Hitchcock, in February. This summer, Ben will direct The Play That Goes Wrong, while also assisting with the technical elements and set construction for Puss in Boots, Shrek the Musical Jr., and Anything Goes.
In addition to his work with Oakwood, Ben directs the Pennsville Performing Arts Boosters Summer Theatre program. Last year, he led their production of Beetlejuice Jr., and this year he will direct the full version of Into the Woods. Through this program, he has developed a meaningful summer learning experience for students in grades 6–12, offering master classes in acting, improv, set building, and painting. His goal is to provide students with an invaluable, hands-on understanding of the entire theatrical process.
Outside the theater, Ben is a Gifted and Talented teacher in the Penns Grove School District, where he also advises Robotics and Academic League. He runs an annual mural project to help beautify the community, advises Science Fair, runs the Field Street garden, and prepares kids for the Math Showcase.
He is a devoted husband and father of two daughters, and he continues to give back to his community by volunteering at the local Food Pantry and helping to organize monthly pancake breakfasts in Salem.
There truly isn’t a more deserving individual to spotlight. Ben’s selfless dedication, creative vision, and unwavering commitment to arts education have left an enduring impact on Oakwood and the greater Salem County community.
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