Asheville Theater Alliance's Mission Statement
The mission of the Asheville Theater Alliance is to unite, elevate, and amplify the vibrant performing arts community in Western North Carolina. We are dedicated to fostering a thriving, inclusive theater ecosystem that values collaboration over competition. By supporting local theaters, artists, and audiences, we create a network of shared resources, knowledge, and opportunities that strengthen the collective creative spirit. Through innovative, community-driven programs and strategic partnerships, we celebrate the power of collaboration to inspire and enrich lives, promote cultural expression, and ensure the economic vitality of the region. Asheville Theater Alliance champions an environment where all voices are heard, where the boundaries of creativity are expanded, and where the arts are accessible, sustainable, and celebrated for generations to come.
DEI Statement
At the Asheville Theater Alliance, we believe that diversity, equity, and inclusion are essential to the health and vitality of the performing arts. We are committed to creating an environment where individuals from all backgrounds—regardless of race, ethnicity, gender identity, sexual orientation, ability, socio-economic status, or any other characteristic—feel seen, valued, and empowered to fully participate in and contribute to our theater community. We actively seek to promote diverse voices, stories, and perspectives on stage and behind the scenes. Through education, outreach, and intentional collaboration, we strive to dismantle systemic barriers, foster belonging, and ensure that all members of our community have equal access to artistic opportunities and resources.
Values Statement
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Collaboration Over Competition: We believe that the true strength of our arts community lies in working together, not against each other. By prioritizing collaboration, we foster a culture of support, sharing, and collective growth, enabling us all to thrive.
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Inclusivity and Belonging: We are dedicated to creating a space where all voices, identities, and perspectives are celebrated. We value the richness that diversity brings and seek to make theater a place where everyone, regardless of background, feels welcome, respected, and heard.
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Artistic Excellence: We are committed to supporting and celebrating exceptional artistic work in all its forms. We believe in the transformative power of theater to challenge, inspire, and connect us to our shared humanity.
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Community Engagement: We recognize the vital role the performing arts play in fostering community and connection. We are committed to creating programs and partnerships that engage and uplift our local audiences, artists, and neighborhoods.
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Equity and Access: We strive for fairness and equal opportunity in all aspects of our work. We believe that access to the arts should be available to all, and we work to ensure that barriers to participation—whether financial, social, or cultural—are removed.
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Sustainability: We are committed to the long-term health of the arts ecosystem in Western North Carolina. Through thoughtful stewardship of resources, ongoing education, and forward-thinking partnerships, we aim to create a thriving, sustainable theater community for future generations.
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Innovation and Creativity: We believe in the power of new ideas, experimentation, and bold thinking. We encourage artistic risk-taking, and we support innovative projects that push the boundaries of what theater can be.
Meet the Board

Jeff Catanese
President and Co-Founder of ATA

Rose Pillmore
Vice-President and Co-Founder of ATA