Welcome to Northern Lakes Arts Association — The Heart of Ely’s Rural Arts Ecosystem
Discover the creative heart of Ely, MN.
Northern Lakes Arts Association produces professional-quality theater, concerts, and cultural events while leading hands-on arts education for youth and adults. As the hub and steward of Ely’s Rural Arts Ecosystem, NLAA connects Mainstage Productions, the Northern Lakes Arts Academy, and Community Arts & Events into one living network of creativity.
From Broadway in the Boundary Waters to youth theater camps, visual arts workshops, and free concerts in the park, NLAA makes the arts accessible and thriving in Northern Minnesota. Explore our programs, get involved, and experience why the arts matter in rural communities.
Ways to participate
See a Performance
Experience theater, dance, concerts, and live events created here in Ely.
Take a Class
Find workshops, camps, dance classes, and creative opportunities for youth and adults.
Create With Your Community
Join free events, exhibitions, artist opportunities, and community programs throughout the year.
NLAA BY THE NUMBERS
18,000
annual participants
Across performances, workshops, concerts, exhibitions, and community arts events
150+
artists engaged annually
Performers, teaching artists, musicians, designers, and creative collaborators
$100,000+
paid to artists annually
Direct support for artists, performers, and creative workers
10,000+
volunteer hours annually
Community participation supporting productions, events, and arts operations
40
years strong
Nearly four decades of sustained artistic engagement in Ely and northeastern Minnesota
Operating support is made possible in part by the voters of Minnesota through a grant from the Arrowhead Regional Arts Council, thanks to legislative appropriation from the arts and cultural heritage funds.
2026 Donors and Sponsors
Legacy Circle Members
Recognizing individuals whose enduring generosity has helped shape and sustain Northern Lakes Arts Association over time. This circle reflects long-term impact and may include supporters who prefer not to list a public giving amount.
Catherine Aldrich
Kari Wenger
Anonymous
Season Sponsors ($1500+)
Boundary Waters Connect
Brainstorm Bakery
Ely Outfitting Company
Motel Ely
Sherpa
The Boathouse
Barb & Laverne Dunsmore
Insula
The Vermilion Campus Foundation
DiAnn White
Bernie & Kari Dusich
Holly Rom
Lindsey Lang
Larry & Catherine Bogolub
Jamie & Cindy Gardner
Joe & Mary Bianco
Raven Words Press
Firefly Antiques
Anonymous x2
Gold Level Donors ($1000+)
Alanna Dore
Bridgette Sundell
Carrie Bezak
Caroline Owens
David & Kathleen Miller
Heidi Buettner
Mary Louise Icenhour
Nancy Piragis
Paul & Sue Schurke
Roger & Nancy Benjamin
Rusty & DiAnn White
Sarah Wigdahl-Vollom
Sue Duffy & Linda Ganister
Virgie & The Ivancich Family
River Point Resort & Outfitting Co.
Minnesota Public Radio
Silver Level Donors ($500+)
Al Gerhardstein & Mimi Gingold
Alanna Dore
Brian Batzli
Carolyn & Keith Dehnbostel
Christine Stevens
Ely Auto
Karen McManus
Katie Heitzig
Jan Carey
Kristine & Krista Woerhide
Laura Myntti
Norma McKinnon
Pamela Saunders
Sheldon Damberg
Steven & Mona Johnson
Tim Deyak
Town of Morse
Troy West
Bronze Level Donors ($250+)
Albert & Karen Maddern
Andrea Landro-Pike
Ann Spitler
Bear Island Realty
Brian Krause
Darlene Nemanich
Dave & Rene Settergren
David & Michelle Young
Ely Flower and Seed
Frandsen Bank & Trust
Grand Ely Lodge
Glenda Harbaugh
James Montana III
Karl Kubiak
Kathleen & Byron Anderson
Linda Carlson
Log Cabin Coffee
Mindy Shulfer
Nancy Sorjanen
Mrs. Pamela Kearney
Piragis Northwoods
Raven’s Wing B&B
Rebecca Nova
Roberta Klar
Sue Germek
Sue & Wayne Pasmick