Our History
Northern Lakes Arts Association (NLAA) has been established with a noble mission to enrich the cultural life of Ely, MN, and the surrounding region through the arts. Over the years, NLAA has grown into a cornerstone of the community, offering a wide range of arts that includes theater productions, music concerts, art classes, and youth camps. NLAA has been dedicated to making the arts accessible to all, providing scholarships through the Youth Art Fund Scholarship initiative and ensuring that participation fees are not a barrier students and families facing financial challenges. This unwavering to inclusivity has allowed NLAA to serve a diverse audience, from the youngest participants to senior community members. NLAA's programming has evolved to include the annual Broadway in the Boundary Waters season, which features musicals, youth camps, and concerts that draw large audiences. The association has also been instrumental in launching new initiatives, such as the Northern Lakes Youth Theater, which provides young people with opportunities to develop their acting skills and perform in front of live audiences.
The Snow Sculpture Symposium
The Ely Winter Festival has become a beloved tradition in the community, but did you know that it all started with the Northern Lakes Arts Association? NLAA helped create the snow sculpture contest and symposium that eventually evolved into the festival we know today. Take a look at these photos from the early days of the event, and see how it has grown and changed over the years.
Theatrical Productions
NLAA has a rich history of producing professional and inspiring productions. With over one hundred musicals, plays, and performances under our belt, we are dedicated to bringing engaging and thought-provoking shows to our community. Join us for an unforgettable experience.
Reflections Dance Company
Reflections Dance Company, under the direction of Molly Olson, has been a proud member of NLAA for the past four years. Our accessible dance classes aim to elevate dancers and showcase their talents. We produce two dance concerts annually to showcase the work of our talented company. We are thrilled to have recently featured our film "Home on Earth" at the North x North International Film Festival.