It is a grand and bittersweet thing!
Interim Executive Director, Joanna Mechaley handed over the keys to the castle to our new Executive Director, Heath Johnson!
Joanna stepped into this role and navigated it with amazing passion and style. Heath brings forth new perspectives and innovations. Both of which are shown in the letters addressed to us all that you can read below…

Tonight I threw away an ice cream cake that had been in my freezer for the better part of a year. Happily proclaiming “Happy Birthday, Jason!” (ummm…who’s Jason and why do I have his cake?), this festive treat had, over time, deteriorated into a menacing tooth-chipper that smugly squatted in my icebox, stealing precious space from the frozen pizza, rump roast, and Snickers bars that longed to rise to the top shelf. 
As I ruminated about Jason and his misplaced leftovers, it suddenly struck me that all good things really do come to an end. Okay, so, I’m pretty sure the party was Ah-Mazing while it lasted and I bet I could have powered through that frozen confection like it owed me money. But, really, it was time to move on. 
Much like my position as your Interim Executive Director of the Matthews Opera House.
It has been one of my greatest privileges to serve in this capacity at the Matthews. This institution has been a central part of my life for nearly 30 years. Through it I have found a community, developed skills I never knew I had, and grown in confidence and abilities in ways I never imagined. I credit the people, the organization, and the opportunities the Matthews has provided. 
And, with that in mind, I am so excited to announce that my interim has come to an end and the Matthews is “rising to the top shelf” with our new Executive Director, Heath Johnson!
Heath is a familiar face to many of you, myself included. I’ve listened to this cat perform around the Hills for the last decade and, most recently, been witness to his stellar efforts at the helm of the Queen City Songwriters. He’s warm, he’s savvy, and he’s eager to continue our forward momentum. I couldn’t be happier to pass the torch (or, in this case, the keys) to Heath and I welcome you to come and meet him on Friday, November 22 from 3-5pm at our 20th Anniversary Open House and Ribbon Cutting in the Matthews Gallery. 
My best to you all and thank you for your continued support of the arts. 
~ Joanna
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Hello, everyone!
I’m Heath Johnson, and I’m incredibly excited and honored to step into the role of Executive Director at The Matthews Opera House. As a singer-songwriter for over a decade and the founder of Queen City Songwriters, a non-profit in the area promoting original, local and regional music, I’ve been deeply involved in fostering our local music artists here in Spearfish. I’m passionate about building a vibrant arts community where creativity and storytelling can thrive.
On a personal note, I’m a proud father of four, with another little one due to arrive any day now! Balancing family life with my love for the arts has been a rewarding journey, and I’m eager to bring that same energy and dedication to The Matthews.
I truly believe that the future holds great things for the arts in Spearfish and the Black Hills, and I can’t wait to collaborate with all of you. Together, we can create something truly special for our community.
Looking forward to what’s ahead!
Warmly,
Heath Johnson