"What I love about Ely is that when you give in, it gives back."
This sentiment, shared by actor Noah Warner, captures the soul of a small-town arts community that has not only redefined his career but also his approach to storytelling. In the serene, wooded embrace of Ely, Minnesota, where the wilderness meets a flourishing arts scene guided by the Northern Lakes Arts Association (NLAA), Warner has found more than a creative haven—he has found a second home.
Growing up, Warner’s love for storytelling was deeply rooted in the traditions of his religious upbringing. “Retelling stories brings joy and celebration out in others,” he reflects, a perspective that has shaped his craft from early performances to professional stages in major cities and back to the Boundary Waters. For Warner, storytelling is more than an art form; it’s a way of connecting with others, a gift he now shares with Ely’s vibrant community.
Warner first came to Ely as part of NLAA’s Broadway in the Boundary Waters program, and the experience was transformative. “Creating strong relationships with the people of Ely, and specifically the kids, inspires me to create my best work,” he says. But it wasn’t just the relationships that inspired him—it was the town’s ability to give back as much as it receives. Warner saw a community wholeheartedly invested in its artists, from children attending workshops to audiences filling seats and spreading the word about local productions.
What sets NLAA apart for Warner is its creative freedom. “NLAA allows the actor to explore organically on stage,” he explains, contrasting it with other companies where actors are often boxed into assigned traits. This freedom has empowered him to dive deeply into his roles, from embodying the buoyant optimism of ELF: The Musical to embracing the complex depths of Shakespeare in the upcoming Great Nordic Shakespeare Festival.
For Warner, ELF is more than a holiday show—it’s a personal reflection of his joy in spreading Christmas cheer. “Growing up, I always loved the idea of spreading Christmas cheer through song,” he shares. The production feels like an extension of his belief in the transformative power of shared stories. Meanwhile, his preparation for Shakespeare represents uncharted territory. While he admits the challenge is new, Warner is eager to bring “strong authenticity” to the Bard’s timeless words, blending his experience with fresh artistic opportunities.
One defining moment in Warner’s journey came during his first summer in Ely. Rehearsing the finale of Songs for a New World, he was overwhelmed with emotion as he sang the poignant line, “Hear My Song.” That moment, he says, encapsulated the beauty of opportunity—how one person turning their head at the right moment can change everything. For Warner, Ely provided that pivotal turn, opening doors to projects that have shaped his career and leading to what he calls “this big professional moment in my life.”
Warner envisions Ely growing into a regional arts hub, with NLAA at the center. “Ely has the advantage of showcasing various mediums of art,” he notes, dreaming of collaborations with theaters in Duluth or Minneapolis and year-round programming that could sustain a residency model.
Despite his busy career, Warner remains grounded, balancing his craft with personal life through thoughtful rituals—one music streaming platform for work, another for personal playlists. This balance keeps him connected to his roots and his community, where his passion for engaging Ely’s youth and inspiring the next generation fuels his vision. “Use all the resources available,” he advises young actors. “You’ll always carry that small town with you, so represent it well.”
From the quiet anticipation of Carnegie Hall to the dynamic stages of Ely, Warner’s journey is a testament to the power of storytelling and community. As he steps into the spotlight—whether spreading holiday cheer in ELF: The Musical or delving into Shakespeare’s world—Warner’s heart remains with Ely. Here, every role is more than a performance; it’s an opportunity to connect, inspire, and transform.
In Ely, Warner has found a stage where his work resonates deeply. And for this actor, who sees storytelling as a way to spark joy and celebration, that might be the greatest gift of all.
Experience the Magic of ELF: The Musical in Ely, MN
This holiday season, Northern Lakes Arts Association invites you to ELF: The Musical, a heartwarming and hilarious story about Buddy the Elf’s journey from the North Pole to New York City in search of family, belonging, and the true meaning of Christmas. Perfect for all ages, this production promises joy, laughter, and holiday spirit for the entire family.
Show Dates & Times:
Evening Performances: December 12, 13, 14, 19, 20, & 21 at 7 PM
Matinee Performances: December 14, 15, 20, & 21 at 2 PM
Pay-What-You-Can Performance: December 18 at 7 PM
Location:Vermilion Fine Arts Theater1900 East Camp Street, Ely, MN
Tickets:Tickets are available now and selling quickly. Secure your seats by clicking the button below!
Generously sponsored by the Ivancich Family, this production is made possible in part by funding from the Donald G. Gardner Humanities Trust and the Vermilion Foundation.
This is more than just a musical—it’s an opportunity to come together as a community, share in the laughter and magic of the season, and create lasting holiday memories with your loved ones.
Whether you’re a longtime fan of Buddy the Elf or experiencing this story for the first time, ELF: The Musical is sure to leave your heart full and your spirits bright.
We look forward to welcoming you to the theater and celebrating the joy, connection, and creativity that make this time of year so special. Don’t miss your chance to be part of the holiday.
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