Strong supporter

She is quick to credit her board of directors and the volunteers of the Lake City Playhouse for the nonprofit community theatre’s success, but behind every good organization there is a tireless, hard-working leader.

Dianne Ansbaugh has been that leader. Ansbaugh just completed her tenure as chairman of the Playhouse board, and her sixth volunteer-year with the playhouse.

A self-proclaimed “wannabe actress,” Ansbaugh has devoted hundreds of hours to the playhouse, in addition to managing her own successful lighting company.

The only community theater in Kootenai County, the Lake City Playhouse has been providing affordable access to quality theater productions since 1961.

“Since that time, we’ve grown to our present size, producing seven main season shows and four children’s workshops,” said Ansbaugh. “I continue to be amazed at the talent we have in North Idaho.”

Many theatergoers witnessed that endless talent during last year’s “Forever Plaid” performance. “Forever Plaid” went on to win first place at the American Association of Community Theatre competition. The production also placed second at the Region 9 competition, which included entries from Washington, Oregon, Idaho and Alaska.

Ansbaugh first became aware of the playhouse when her granddaughter became involved in several theater productions.

“Kids are a great motivator,” she said.

After that, she stayed involved because the playhouse needed people and because the playhouse was a good resource for children in the area.

“The children’s workshops provide an educational opportunity for kids, giving them a unique experience in building confidence, leadership skills, responsibility, and creativity,” Ansbaugh said.

More than 40,000 community members pass through the playhouse doors annually and, according to Ansbaugh, the Playhouse is functioning the best it has in the past six years.

“Our quality has improved a thousandfold and we are respected in the community,” she said.

But Ansbaugh is the first to admit that the playhouse continues to battle financially.

“Royalties are expensive, and it is impossible to survive just on ticket revenue,” she said. “We depend on the continued financial support of the community.”

Fundraising has been a focus of Ansbaugh’s energy. The second annual Dueling Divas fundraiser held Aug. 25 was very successful. A dinner/auction fundraiser was held last Sunday at Tony’s Restaurant.

Another fundraiser came together after $10,000 worth of landscaping was donated to the playhouse. Since the landscaping included pavers, the board decided to give the community the opportunity to personalize the pavers, which are selling for $100 each.

“All proceeds from the pavers will help keep the theater going,” Ansbaugh said.

Thanking Brian Doig, executive director; Todd Jasmin, artistic/technical director; and Rebecca McNeill, box office manager; and her board Ansbaugh said, “The hours they devote to making the playhouse a success is simply remarkable.”