Letter from Christopher Scholl
Dear Ashland Productions families and friends,
It is with mixed emotions that I announce my departure as Executive Director of Ashland Productions, effective July 21. I won’t be going far, just heading north on White Bear Avenue and around the lake to lead the White Bear Center for the Arts. As many of you know, I was a visual artist and set designer before moving into arts administration, so working amidst art studios feels like going home.
For the last five years, I have had the amazing opportunity to assist this incredible institution in bringing top-notch musical theater to our participants and patrons in the most welcoming way possible. It has been an honor and a pleasure for me to share this work with my fantastic colleagues.
I have also gotten to know many of you. You are truly the lifeblood of Ashland, and your passion for this place and its work inspired me every single day. This role has allowed me a bird’s eye view of what Ashland offers to its stakeholders and what you, in turn, offer Ashland. I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to have served you and this institution.
This transition comes at a time of organizational strength with a strong cash reserve, committed donors, an excellent board of directors, and an innovative, resilient staff.
Since 2018, we have:
Rewritten Ashland’s mission and values to include all stakeholders: youth, adult performers, and patrons. We have re-envisioned many aspects of our operations with an eye towards living our mission of presenting excellent theater in an atmosphere of welcoming acceptance.
Survived the pandemic and became one of the first theaters to prove we could safely present fully produced shows with in-person patrons.
Dramatically increased the quality of our marketing materials, including weekly newsletters, video trailers, social media and subscription materials.
Grown Ashland’s annual contributed income and number of donors.
Changed our participation fee structure for feature productions to a pay-what-you-can model.
Hired and developed a talented and committed administrative staff.
More information about the future of this position will be released by the Ashland Board of Directors in the near term. Inquiries can be directed to Ashland’s boad chair, Tom Armitage, at 612-812-2925.
I want to thank you for your continued trust and support both professionally and personally. It has been an honor to work with so many of you as Executive Director of Ashland Productions. I know that this organization is poised to continue creating great theater and a welcoming environment for many years to come. I look forward to staying connected to the Ashland community.
With gratitude,
Christopher Scholl, Executive Director, Ashland Productions