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Lerner Theatre reports stronger ticket sales, launches Elkhart Jazz Fest and plans expanded programming
Summary
Board reports show March ticket gross surged to $216,928, 91 events are scheduled for 2026, and leaders announced the launch of Elkhart Jazz Fest plus reopened social-media outreach and a 300-copy commemorative book.
The Lerner Theatre reported improved finances and expanded programming at its April 8, 2026 governing board meeting in Elkhart.
Treasurer Nick Mueller presented year-to-date Lerner financials through Feb. 28, 2026 and said gross profit from theater operations was $40,266 and the year-to-date net loss was $80,862, an improvement from last year's $177,657 loss. "Net income from theater operations ... is $40,266," Mueller said. He noted total operational expenses of $295,794 were covered by a city contribution of $247,528 (84%) and a Lerner contribution of $48,266 (16%).
In the general manager's report, Carl said gross ticket sales in March 2026 came to $216,928, more than double March 2025's $101,791, and that 91 day- or night-time events were already scheduled for 2026. "This March 2026 shows $216,928, which is more than double," Carl said, characterizing the trend as the result of programming choices, earlier bookings and partnerships with outside promoters.
Kurt Thompson, speaking for an absent Premier Arts representative, said the March staging of Seussical was a major success and that Frozen is scheduled May 1-3 with six performances; he noted more than 300 people auditioned for recent productions and the company expects roughly 200 local performers across shows. "Seussical was a great success for their 2026 grand opening," Thompson said.
Management described marketing steps to grow audiences: a 30,000-piece postcard mailing, utility bill inserts to 15,000 homes, re-enabling social-media comments for direct advertising, and use of Ticketmaster data and promotional codes to track buyers. Leaders said they will pursue revenue diversification through concessions, corporate donations, grants and Friends of the Lerner fundraising. The Friends group recently relaunched its website to improve donation flows.
The board also discussed a near-complete 100-year historical coffee table book (300 copies planned) to be used for donor gifts and merchandise, and a proposed 20-minute historical video to play in the Lerner lobby during Arts Walk. The Lerner's leaders said they are planning the Elkhart Jazz Fest and expect to announce headline artists as confirmations finalize.
The meeting included no contested policy debates; board members accepted the reports and approved routine items before adjourning.
