Guiding Us From Reconstruction to Relaunch
Amber Burgess, Goshen Theater’s talented managing director for more than three years, resigned on October 12 to take a position with the Century Center in South Bend as an events coordinator. Burgess started at the Goshen Theater in June of 2018 after a stint with the Round Barn Theater at the former Amish Acres in Nappanee.
“I loved my work at the Goshen Theater,” Burgess says, “and the three years I spent there were some of the most fulfilling of my career. I think often of what the theater looked like on my first day of work, and I am astounded by the incredible progress that was made. My dream was to help create a great community arts hub in Goshen. I got a front row seat while so many positive steps were taken to that end. Above all, I cannot wait to do the things that I have so often asked the community to do: Donate, Volunteer, and Attend.”During Burgess’ tenure at the Goshen Theater, she had to contend with contracted events being rescheduled multiple times due to the uncertainty of COVID 19. However, she did manage to hold two successful youth drama camps in the summers of 2000 and 2001. The $5.2 million renovation of the entire theater also impinged on the events that could be scheduled, especially during most of 2000.
“The Goshen Theater Board of Directors is most grateful for Amber’s leadership,” says board chair Julia Gautsche. “She helped us successfully re-open the theater and develop programming that provides education and entertainment for all ages. Her artistic skill and enthusiasm for the theater engaged and enriched our community.”