Our Staff
Meagan VandeLaar, Interim Executive Director
creativeartscouncil@gmail.com
Meagan has been involved with Creative Arts in many ways since moving to the area from Indianapolis around ten years ago. She helped in the office as an interim executive assistant, has been in Creative Arts Theater productions, taught workshops, and partners with Creative Arts through the theatre company she founded, Parlor City Shakespeare Company.
She holds a BA in Theatre and English from Purdue University and was a company member and part of the education team of both EclecticPond Theatre Company and Shakespearemachine from the founding of both groups. Meagan is an actor, director, intimacy director, teaching artist, and all-around arts enthusiast that believes strongly in the positive effect the arts can have on our personal lives and for the greater good of our communities.
In 2023, she joined the board of directors and was elected secretary shortly thereafter. Meagan's time on the board has deepened her dedication to and passion for the mission of Creative Arts. It is her diligent hope that we can continue to impact the lives of the members of our vibrant community through our programming, educational activities, exhibitions, and performances.
Tammy Ray, Director of Creative Services
cacray49@gmail.com
Tammy’s journey with Creative Arts began in 2013 when her daughter was cast as an Oompa Loompa in Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. As a supportive parent with a deep love for music, she quickly became involved, and the following summer, she took on the role of piano accompanist for South Pacific. Her musical talents soon became an integral part of Creative Arts' productions, and she went on to serve as a rehearsal accompanist for several summer theater productions, helping bring performances to life through her skilled accompaniment.
Recognizing her dedication and organizational expertise, Creative Arts welcomed Tammy to the team in 2019 as an Executive Assistant, where she provided essential administrative support to ensure the smooth operation of programs and productions. Her leadership and commitment to the organization continued to grow, and in May of 2022, she transitioned into the role of Director of Creative Services. In this position, she plays a key role in overseeing the artistic and logistical aspects of Creative Arts, ensuring that each production and program runs efficiently and maintains the highest level of creative excellence.
Tammy’s background in both business and music uniquely equips her for this leadership role. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Management with a minor in Piano Performance from Huntington University, combining her passion for music with her strong organizational skills. She further advanced her expertise by earning a Master of Business Administration degree from Indiana Wesleyan University. With her diverse skill set and deep appreciation for the arts, Tammy is committed to fostering a thriving creative environment at Creative Arts, where performers and students alike can grow, express themselves, and experience the joy of the performing arts.
Ainsley Werich, Manager of Arts Programming creativeartsdesign74@gmail.com
Ainsley’s journey with Creative Arts began when she was a young student in the Ballet School, where she developed a strong foundation in movement and performance. Her love for the stage quickly expanded beyond dance, leading her to her first theatrical role as an Oompa Loompa in Charlie and the Chocolate Factory in 2013. From there, she continued to grow as a performer, making memorable appearances in productions such as South Pacific and Music Man Jr., further solidifying her passion for theater.
Her connection to Creative Arts deepened in the summer of 2022 when she returned as an intern, gaining hands-on experience in theater production and arts administration. Since then, she has continued to be an integral part of CAC’s creative team, assisting with The Wizard of Oz and taking on the exciting challenge of directing Winnie the Pooh: Kids Edition. This year, she also led the Early Stages Workshop, guiding young performers as they took their first steps into the world of theater. Her dedication to mentoring aspiring artists reflects her passion for storytelling and her commitment to fostering a love of the performing arts in the next generation.
Currently, Ainsley is in her senior year at Purdue University, where she is pursuing a degree in Theater along with Film and Video Studies. She also minors in Organizational Leadership, a testament to her drive to not only perform and create but also to lead and inspire within the arts industry. With her diverse skill set and deep love for theater, Ainsley is excited to continue growing as an artist, educator, and leader in the creative world.