Studio Tenn is a creative and inspirational theatrical space that exists to bring people together, not divide them.
Ethan Ward, an associate at Bass, Berry & Sims, joined Studio Tenn as a board intern in the fall of 2020 after completing the Young Leaders Council program. He loved theater and knew Studio Tenn’s reputation for putting on amazing productions. He also saw the importance of an organization like Studio Tenn in the community. Getting involved presented a great opportunity for someone who loved theater, but whose talents seemed more suited to the boardroom than the stage. Ethan now chairs the board resource committee and serves on the executive and finance committees.
Ethan joined the board at an interesting and difficult time. COVID proved challenging for Studio Tenn, but also provided an opportunity to reset and embark on strategic planning. While many regional theater companies have closed over the last few years, Studio Tenn has taken steps to emerge stronger than ever. The organization just opened Turner Theater in the Factory — a permanent, purpose-built theater that will serve as its home for many years to come.
Studio Tenn brings Broadway-caliber theater productions right to our backyard, and Ethan has gotten an inside look at what it takes to operate and sustain a nonprofit theater company. In his law practice, he regularly works with nonprofit and tax-exempt organizations. He feels it is a win-win for him to serve Studio Tenn with his legal experience — and to better serve his clients because of what he has learned as a board member.
Last season, Studio Tenn saw record-setting ticket sales. And Ethan thinks next season will be even better. “This is such an exciting time for Studio Tenn, as we grow our awareness throughout not just Middle Tennessee, but the whole country,” says Ethan. “I hope to see continued and sustainable growth in a way that ensures Studio Tenn is a lasting presence.”
Jacket, shirt, pants: State & Liberty
Tie: Joseph & Feiss