Premier Arts inspires the imagination and develops the creative spirit of our community. Its focus is on youth, family, and lifelong learning. Premier Arts, the resident theatre company of The Lerner Theatre, is comprised of professional staff guided by engaged community leaders serving as the board of Directors.
Premier Arts, based in Elkhart, Indiana, is a recognized regional leader in providing diverse, professional performing arts education and entertainment. Premier Arts instills civic pride, confidence and character building for everyone engaged in its success. The region supports Premier Arts through attendance, contribution and volunteerism.
Premier Arts is a reflection of Elkhart’s diverse Community. Our Program is committed to providing:
- A fun and safe environment
- Lifelong performing arts education, programming, and opportunities for the purpose of expressing diverse creative talents & interests
- Professional entertainment & customer service that exceeds expectations
- Artistic excellence and leadership in developing the total theatre experience in the downtown Elkhart Arts & Entertainment district
EXECUTIVE TEAM

Craig Gibson
Executive Artistic Director

Ashlea Harrington
Director of Education

Tanner Smale
Director of Marketing & Communications

Zak Harrington
Technical Director
PROFESSIONAL STAFF

Quinci Julian
Costume Designer

Melissa Harty
Costume Coordinator

Matthew Pippenger
Theatrical Technician

Paul Hanft
Advertising Specialist

Stephanie Krol
Public Relations Director
CREATIVE TEAM

Craig Gibson
Director

Zak Harrington
Technical Director, Set Design, Sound Engineer

Ashlea Harrington
Vocal Director

Liesl Bell
Vocal Director

Andrew Kreider
Lighting Design

Tanner Smale
Scenic Painter

Quinci Julian
Choreographer

Cody Smith
Choreographer

Sarah Robinson
Choreographer

Ryan Smaka
Stage Manager

Matthew Pippenger
Stage Manager

Derek Stanford
Stage Manager

Tom Bidigare
Stage Manager

Dean Tuggle
Theatrical Technician

Abbie Thompson
Company Manager

Karen Hiatt
Company Manager

Deb Julian
Company Manager

Mindy Steele
Company Manager

Chris Trowbridge
Company Manager

Kim Trowbridge
Child Care Coordinator

Valerie Corson
Sewing Team

Ruth Ann Ashton
Sewing Team

Susan Ott
Sewing Team
Board of Directors
Elizabeth Bond
Lindsay Banks Borden
Elizabeth Naquin Borger*
Jeannelle Brady
Patty Brotherson
B.J. Jellison
Alexis Martin Klose
Katie McCormick
Kristin Mereness
Beth North
JJ Osterloo Bond
Lisa Gilkey Schoetzow
Patty Sullivan
Alice A. Martin*
*Denotes Emeritus Member