2026 MCEA Fall Conference: Full Schedule

4:00pm CDT

MN Presenters Network (MPN) and How to Utilize Your School's Fine Arts Theater

Wednesday October 21, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm CDT

Curious how to make the most of your district’s Fine Arts Theater? Whether you're just getting started or looking to grow your series, this session covers strategies for presenting performances, generating revenue through rentals, and partnering with statewide networks. Learn how to get started, connect with the Minnesota Presenters Network (MPN), navigate artist negotiations, and explore block booking, hospitality and funding strategies.

Key Takeaways:
• Learn how to launch or expand a school-based performance series
• Discover rental strategies and best practices for working with artists
• Explore statewide connections and tools to strengthen your theater programming

Speakers

Annmarie Lacher

Director of Community Education & Communications, Brainerd Public Schools

Annmarie Lacher is the Director of Community Education for Brainerd Public Schools. She has been in the field of community education for 12 years but has always been a proponent of and participant in lifelong learning. Our state is so fortunate to have support for Community Education... Read More →

Marie Reszel

CE Program Coordinator, Albany Area Community Education

Albany Area Schools Community Education Coordinator Marie Reszel has served in Community Education for 18 years. She oversees the highly successful six-show BEAT(Blattner Energy Arts Theater) Fine Arts Series in the district’s 800-seat theater, where season tickets consistently... Read More →

Wednesday October 21, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm CDT
Suite 108 - Lower Level 30 Civic Center Dr SE, Rochester, MN 55904, USA

Facilities

2026 MCEA Fall Conference

4:00pm CDT

Annmarie Lacher

Marie Reszel

Get help with the event