Unsung Heroes:

Scott Shallenbarger, Director of Miracle on South Division Street

In our very first Unsung Heroes spotlight—where we recognize those who make magic happen from behind the curtain—we honor director Scott Shallenbarger, a Highland Park resident whose steady artistic leadership brings Miracle on South Division Street to life. Scott recently retired after 33 years as the Director of Theatre Arts at Highland Park High School, where he shaped generations of young artists and built a legacy of excellence and community.

A published playwright, teaching artist and co-founder of The Power of Story Crew, Scott has dedicated his career to using theatre as a tool for connection, empathy and storytelling. His directing credits span a remarkable range—from Les Misérables to The Glass Menagerie (Jeff Award), Six Degrees of Separation, Love, Valor, Compassion, The Road to Mecca and many more—and his passion for craft is evident in every production he guides.

Since joining Citadel’s creative family, Scott has become something of a resident director, previously helming the acclaimed productions of I and You and Baby. His vision, collaboration, and deep care for both artists and audiences continue to elevate our stage and embody the very spirit of an “unsung hero.”