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
PROFESSIONAL STAFF
Paul Hanft
Advertising Specialist
Stephanie Krol
Public Relations Specialist
CREATIVE TEAM
Craig Gibson
Director
Ashlea Harrington
Vocal Director
Andrew Kreider
Lighting Design
Tanner Smale
Scenic Painter
Sarah Robinson
Choreographer
Quinci Julian
Choreographer
Cody Smith
Choreographer
Dean Tuggle
Theatrical Technician
Ryan Smaka
Stage Manager
Matthew Pippenger
Stage Manager
Derek Stanford
Stage Manager
Deb Julian
Company Manager
Mindy Steele
Company Manager
Abbie Thompson
Company Manager
Karen Hiatt
Company Manager
Kim Trowbridge
Child Care Coordinator
Ruth Ann Ashton
Sewing Team
Valerie Corson
Sewing Team
Susan Ott
Sewing Team
Board of Directors
Elizabeth Bond
Lindsay Banks Borden
Jeannelle Brady
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