Chad Henderson heads to S.C. Philharmonic

Accepts marketing + comms director position

Chad Henderson, most recently the executive director at Trustus Theatre, is joining the South Carolina Philharmonic as its new director of marketing and communications, the orchestra announced today.

According to a news release, “Henderson’s passion for music, experience in promoting events in Columbia, and his desire to work for an established team of professionals makes him a winning fit” for his new position as he leaves one performing arts field for another in the same city.

“I am a longtime fan of the South Carolina Philharmonic and its programming, and am thrilled to have the opportunity to join their team,” Henderson (right) said. “The leadership at the South Carolina Philharmonic has an amazing track record and tenure, and the board of directors has been exemplary in it support of the staff and moving the organization forward. I had the pleasure of talking with various members of the Philharmonic’s artistic family over the past few weeks, and I am so delighted to be able to work for this amazing arts organization.”

A Spartanburg native, Henderson, came to Columbia in 2003 as a student of the South Carolina Honors College. He started his studies as an aspiring professional percussionist at the school of music but later transitioned his minor in advertising to a major with a new minor in theatre. Henderson served as Trustus’ marketing director for eight years starting in 2007, was artistic director for 5 years, and the organization’s executive director throughout the past year—which included the theatre’s closure due to the pandemic and its return to live performance.

He resigned from the theatre just more than a week ago on July 29. On Aug. 16 he will bring 14 years of experience promoting nonprofit arts programming in Columbia to the S.C. Philharmonic as it prepares to launch its 2021/2022 concert season with live and virtual performances.

“I have known Chad since his early days at Trustus and have always admired his creative drive and commitment to the arts in Columbia. As colleagues we have often turned to each other for guidance, and I am delighted that we can now work together to advance the mission of the South Carolina Philharmonic,” Executive Director Rhonda Hunsinger said.