DANVILLE — The Fischer Theatre’s new executive director reflects on her pride in working with the local historic landmark celebrating 140 years this year and what’s ahead for the future.
Crystal Bivans has been interim director since the resignation of Jason Rome at the end of February.
Bivans earlier this week was named the theatre’s next executive director. She will transition from interim to executive director on May 1.
Bivans has been serving at the Fischer Theatre as operations director since July 2021.
Bivans, according to the Vermilion Heritage Foundation Board which oversees the Fischer, has been instrumental in driving the theatre’s forward momentum through thoughtful communication, streamlining processes, dreaming up creative and engaging events, introducing flavorful concoctions to the café and coordinating volunteers.
Bivans said, “I am beyond proud to be given this opportunity to continue driving the Vermilion Heritage Foundation forward. I am a keep your head down, work hard, and go for it kind of person, who thrives on obstacles presented daily. Leading the operation of a Nationally Registered Historic Theatre is the unique part that most people don’t ever get to experience. It’s a pretty special place that I instantly felt a connection with the day I walked through the doors.
“This past month has been full of challenges and learning curves, but it constantly brings me joy and fulfillment. The icing on the cake is our amazing army of volunteers essential to making the theatre shine. They are the friendly faces who greet you at every event, unbeknownst to them they were instrumental in helping me make this decision to transition into my new role,” she continued.
Bivans said, “I am honored that the board has entrusted me with the responsibility to lead our organization and our beautiful theatre into its 140th year.”
Bivans explained her short-term and long-term goals.
“We are a small organization that prides itself on working in a unique environment. We’re anxious to add a development director to our team as well as a part-time theatre manager. We’re looking forward to building a solid team to help support our mission and make the community excited to walk through our doors,” she said.
Bivans continued, “Our long-term goal is to continue our ongoing restoration. Hiring a development director will help us push forward and allow us to continue supporting the needs of our community and the requirements for national touring groups. Bringing our infrastructure to the next phase will allow us to present a wider array of arts to Downtown Danville.”
Bivans also highlighted upcoming events at the Fischer.
This month the theatre has some great community events, she said.
They include the showings of “Elemental” at 3 p.m. April 13 presented by The Siefert Team and Pete Goodwin and “War Room” at 6 p.m. on April 18 presented by Mosaic City Church. Admission to both films will be at no cost to the community.
The Danville Barbershop Chorus is returning at 3 p.m. on April 20 for a Spring Show — Doo Wop with special guests from Purdue University “Ba Na Na.”
In May, the theatre kicks off a monthly run of three tribute acts beginning with Neil Diamond, Seger/Mellencamp, and wrapping up with the Doobie Brothers.
For details and tickets to these events and all things Fischer stay connected atthefischer.com or find it on Facebook and Instagram.
“The community’s support is key to helping us keep the historic Fischer Theatre alive,” Bivans said.