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
PROFESSIONAL STAFF

Craig Gibson
Exec. Artistic Director

Zak Harrington
Technical Director

Ashlea Harrington
Director of Education

Melissa Harty
Costume Coordinator

Tanner Smale
Social Media Coordinator
CREATIVE TEAM

Craig Gibson
Director

Zak Harrington
Technical Director

Michael Rand
Vocal Director

Ashlea Harrington
Vocal Director

Jessica Dubois
Choreographer

Lathaniel Heisey
Choreographer

Quinci Julian
Choreographer

Andrew Kreider
Light Technician

Liesl Bell
Vocal Director

Ryan Smaka
Stage Manager

Kris Seymore
Stage Manager

Jennifer Gregory
Stage Manager

Abbie Thompson
Company Manager, Child Care Coordinator

Chris Trowbridge
Company Manager

Tanner Smale
Scenic Painter

Dean Tuggle
Theatrical Technician

Kevin Mayer
Theatrical Technician

Melissa Harty
Costume Coordinator

Shane Davisson
Lead Seamstress

Tom Bidigare
Stage Manager

Kim Trowbridge
Child Care Coordinator

Matthew Pippenger
Theatrical Technician

Joe Iavagnilio
Theatrical Technician

Stephanie Krol
Public Relations Director

Paul Hanft
Advertising Specialist

Jake Seymore
Media Assistant

Valerie Corson
Sewing Team

Annie Mohr
Sewing Team

Susan Ott
Sewing Team

Jan Bechtel
Sewing Team

John Twichell
Sewing Team

Ruth Ann Ashton
Sewing Team
Board of Directors
Elizabeth Bond
Lindsay Banks Borden
Elizabeth Naquin Borger*
Jeannelle Brady
Patty Brotherson
B.J. Jellison
Alexis Martin Klose
*Denotes Emeritus Member
Katie McCormick
Kristin Mereness
Beth North
JJ Osterloo Bond
Lisa Gilkey Schoetzow
Patty Sullivan
Alice A. Martin*
In The Community
Premier Arts is proud to support those who support us!
Precision Fencing, Decking, & More
Scott Hammontree, Cressy & Everett
Steve Eldridge Century 21 Affiliated
The Gurley Leep Automotive Family
The Rex and Alice A. Martin Foundation