Shaping Miami’s arts legacy

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Theodore “Teddy” Roosevelt Harrell, Jr., a native of Miami, is a lifelong advocate for the arts and a pillar of the community. Currently the Theater Director for Joseph Caleb Auditorium with Miami-Dade County’s Department of Cultural Affairs, Teddy’s journey began at age 13 in the Marshall L. Davis, Sr. African Heritage Cultural Arts Center (DAHCAC).

“I remember stepping into the theater for the first time as a 13-year-old,” Teddy recalls. “The moment I walked on stage, I knew this was where I belonged. That program shaped not just my artistry, but my life.”

Years later, Teddy returned to DAHCAC in a professional capacity, gradually climbing the ladder from assistant roles into management, eventually becoming Assistant Theater Director. “Working behind the scenes gave me a whole new perspective,” he says. “I learned what it takes to run a theater and support the next generation of artists. Those experiences paved the way for me to step into the director position at the Caleb Auditorium.”

With over 30 years in public service, Teddy has worked across state and local agencies, including FEMA, the State of Florida Department of Children and Families, and Miami-Dade County’s Community Action and Human Services Department and was presented the 2024 Miami-Dade County Employee of the Year No Wrong Door Customer Service Excellence Award.

Teddy’s artistic foundation also includes formal studies in music education, vocal music, and theater at Miami-Dade College and the University of Miami, accolades such as WLRN’s 1989 Outstanding New Vocal Student, international tours with the Drifters, and performances in Carbonell Award-winning productions. He earned recognition for directing Simply Simone: The Music of Nina Simone, Jesus Hopped the “A” Train, and producing Crowns and The Mighty Gents.

In 1999, Teddy co-founded the African American Performing Arts Community Theatre (AAPACT), producing, directing, and performing in over twenty productions, nurturing the next generation of South Florida talent.

Teddy holds a Bachelor’s in Organizational Leadership and a Master’s in Executive Management Professional Studies from St. Thomas University and is a proud father to Olivia and Trey.

“His journey embodies the heart and legacy of this Center,” said Marshall L. Davis, Managing Director of DAHCAC.

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