Got a story to tell? Whether you’re just starting out or already an accomplished playwright, now’s your moment. Submit a 10-minute play for a chance to see your work brought to life at Union County Playmakers’ New Play Event.
Gay McCoy Clyburn had a love of the dramatic and storytelling led her to starring roles with Monroe Little Theatre and the Charlotte Opera chorus for “Aida” (in Italian!), where she met the love of her life, Steve Clyburn.
After retiring, they joyfully and permanently returned to Monroe in 2015 to make their home. Never one to sit idly, Gay plunged into the Union County Playmakers board as officer, production manager, fundraiser and cheerleader for all things theatrical and artistic.
Gay died peacefully in on May 7, 2026, following an unexpected and severe illness. To honor her legacy, a memorial fund for a permanent home for Union County Playmakers has been established.
It is with profound gratitude, admiration, and love that Union County Playmakers, and Steve Clyburn, announce the establishment of the Clyburn Stage Fund, a purpose-bound endowment created to honor the extraordinary life and legacy of Gay McCoy Clyburn.
The newly established Clyburn Stage Fund has been created as a permanent legacy initiative designed to support the future acquisition, maintenance, expansion, and technological advancement of a dedicated physical theater space for Union County Playmakers.
This fund will serve as a lasting investment in the arts — one that reflects Gay’s enduring passion for performance, community, education, and creative expression.
Your Business Belongs Here
Thank you for your hard work and dedication to our community theatre. Your time and effort do not go unnoticed and are greatly appreciated. Your commitment to bringing the magic of live performance to our community is truly admirable. Thank you for all that you do.
The Union County Playmakers formed its board of directors and elected officers on Nov. 13, 2013, under the umbrella of the Union County Community Arts Council. We had varied first season and have increased offerings every year. Our board and staff are primarily committed volunteers, who give of both time and talent.
Currently we are performing in the community through partnerships with schools, churches, The City of Monroe Parks and Recreation and other organizations, as we search for our new home. There has been theater in Union County off and on for decades, but we now think we have the stability we need to remain an enduring organization deeply integrated into the community.
Help us achieve the mission of providing opportunities for participation that enrich, inspire, engage, and educate our community through theater arts. Each donations counts, and every amount matters!