04/29/2026
Congratulations to Aria Bethea for being voted in as our New Executive Board Director!
Aria Bethea is a dedicated Theatre Educator who will graduate cm laude in May with a Bachelor of Arts in Theatre Education from Stephen F. Austin State University. With over eight years of experience in theatre, Aria is passionate about helping young artists grow in confidence, creativity, and professionalism—both on stage and in life.
Aria is currently completing her student teaching placement at Crosby High School, where she plans and delivers standards-aligned theatre lessons for middle and high school students. She designs engaging, EdTPA-aligned lesson plans that incorporate instructional technology and works closely with her cooperating teacher to create a supportive, structured, and inclusive classroom environment. Her teaching style centers on student voice, collaboration, and making the arts accessible to all learners.
She previously worked as a Youth Development Specialist with Texas Afterschool Centers on Education, leading workshops focused on self-expression, leadership, and engagement. In this role, she supported diverse groups of students through small-group instruction, homework help, and positive behavior strategies, always prioritizing respect and community-building.
At Stephen F. Austin University, Aria has been actively involved both artistically and in leadership. She directed Future, Here and scenes from Moon Over Buffalo, served as Assistant Director for The Foreigner, and worked as Assistant Technical Director for a High School Workshop. She has also served as President and Treasurer of Alpha Psi Omega and is a member and intern with the Texas Educational Theatre Association.
As a performer, Aria has played Amahl in Amahl and the Night Visitors and Miss Hannigan in Annie, experiences that continue to inform her collaborative and expressive approach to theatre-making.
Aria’s heart for diversity and education aligns naturally with the mission of Diversitá Opera Arts Company. She is deeply committed to expanding representation in the arts and creating spaces where students from all backgrounds feel seen, heard, and valued. Her experience in both theatre education and youth development allows her to contribute meaningfully to educational outreach initiatives while supporting artistic excellence. Through her energy, leadership, and passion for inclusive storytelling, Aria will help further Diversitá’s mission of building a more diverse and educationally impactful future in opera and the performing arts.
