Preston Spence, VCU Virginia Commonwealth University Assistant Professor of Theatre, Passes Away – Richmond VA Community Mourns
Richmond, Virginia is mourning this week after the sudden passing of Preston Spence, a respected Assistant Professor and Technical Director in the Department of Theatre at Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU). Preston’s death has left family, friends, colleagues, students, and the local arts community in shock, reflecting on a life dedicated to the craft of theatre, mentorship, and live performance. Social media quickly filled with messages of condolence, memories, and photos celebrating Preston’s career, talent, and the warmth he brought to those around him.
Preston Spence graduated from VCU’s BFA program in December 2004, returning to his alma mater later in life to share his expertise and passion with the next generation of theatre professionals. Before joining VCU’s faculty, Preston built an impressive career on the West Coast, living in San Diego, California, where he worked as a joint staff member for the University of California San Diego’s Department of Theatre and Dance and the La Jolla Playhouse. He contributed as a show carpenter and production carpenter for numerous productions, including Memphis, Zhivago, The Wiz, Limelight: The Story of Charlie Chaplin, and The 39 Steps, showcasing both technical skill and creative vision.
Colleagues describe Preston as both talented and approachable, someone who could seamlessly balance the technical demands of live performance with mentorship and encouragement. Beyond his primary roles, he occasionally built and loaded scenery for a wide range of arts organizations, including Evoke Dance Theatre, Mo’olelo Performing Arts Company, Chinese Pirate Productions, and Diversionary Theatre. His union membership with I.A.T.S.E. Local 87 allowed him to bring professionalism and safety to countless theatrical and live music productions, leaving a lasting mark on the performance community.
Students remember Preston as more than an instructor; he was a guide, mentor, and friend, encouraging them to pursue excellence while fostering creativity, collaboration, and resilience. Many recall late nights in the workshop, rehearsals, and set construction sessions where Preston’s patience, humor, and insightful guidance inspired confidence in young artists. Faculty colleagues describe him as dependable, generous with his knowledge, and deeply committed to the success of every production he touched.
Preston’s presence extended far beyond the stage and classroom. He was known for quietly making life better for those around him, whether through thoughtful advice, lending a hand during complex set builds, or sharing stories from his extensive theatre experience. Friends and co-workers alike highlight his genuine kindness, integrity, and the care he showed to everyone in his professional and personal life.
The news of Preston’s passing has prompted an outpouring of grief and support from Richmond’s arts community, VCU students and faculty, and former colleagues across the country. Social media tributes and personal messages reflect the profound impact he had on theatre education, live performance, and mentorship. Many emphasize that Preston’s legacy isn’t limited to his impressive résumé but is defined by the lives he touched, the knowledge he shared, and the inspiration he provided to countless performers and students.
Funeral arrangements are being handled privately, as requested by the family. Meanwhile, the VCU community, theatre peers, and arts organizations continue to honor Preston through memorial posts, shared stories, and remembrance activities, celebrating both his professional contributions and the warmth of his character. Candlelight vigils, online tributes, and informal gatherings serve as ways for colleagues, students, and friends to grieve collectively while reflecting on his lasting influence.
Preston Spence’s legacy will endure through the countless students he mentored, the productions he enhanced, and the community of artists he inspired. Richmond, Virginia, and all who knew him will carry forward his dedication, skill, and generous spirit, ensuring that the artistry, professionalism, and warmth Preston shared remain a guiding light in theatre and education.
Rest in peace, Preston Spence. Your memory lives on in every set built, every lesson taught, and every life enriched by your dedication, talent, and heart. VCU, Richmond, and the wider theatre community will forever honor your contributions, keeping your spirit alive in every stage, workshop, and performance you helped bring to life.
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