


Board of Directors
Dedication. Expertise. Passion.
The Board of Directors for Viroqua Community Theater is a dedicated group of individuals committed to fostering the arts in our community. They work tirelessly to guide the organization's mission, overseeing everything from production planning to community outreach. With a shared passion for theater and the arts, they help VCT provide quality performances, educational programs, and opportunities for people of all ages to participate in and enjoy the performing arts. Their leadership and vision are key to VCT’s continued growth and success.

Board of Directors - President
Brian Mastin
Brian Mastin is an example of how community theater can happen to anyone at any time. He went from never being in any theater as a youth, to becoming involved in several shows with his wife and family, and now becoming involved in the organizational part of productions.

Board of Directors - Vice President
Nikki Steele
Nikki has been serving on the VCT board for the past decade. In addition to her leadership role, she has been choreographing VCT productions since 2010. Making her on stage debut, one of her theatrical dreams came to life when she played Velma Kelly in Chicago. Nikki was born and raised in the Driftless region and resides in the area with her husband, Ivan, their 6 children & 2 dogs. Professionally, Nikki owns two dance studios—5.6.7.8 * DANCE in Viroqua and Steele Motion Dance Academy in Sparta. Her passion for dance and dedication to VCT have made her a beloved figure in the community.

Board of Directors - Member
Ary Howe
Ary Howe has been involved in VCT since they were in middle school, starting with the role of Amaryllis in 'The Music Man.' They enjoy performing and heartily support the idea of one community through the arts. They joined the board in January of 2022 and serve on the scholarship and reading committees.

Board of Directors - Member
Ashley Keenan
Ashley joined the Viroqua Community Theater Board in 2023 and serves on the Marketing Committee and the Reading and Programming Committee. Her first adventure with VCT was running the soundboard for The Music Man. Since then, she has contributed in many ways—backstage, side stage, front of house, and on stage. Whether watching, helping, or performing, Ashley finds immense joy in being part of the VCT family. Her all-time favorite musical is *Hairspray*, and her most recent viewing was *The Book of Mormon*.

Board of Directors - Member
Jackie Saner
Jackie Saner is a member of the Board of Directors

Board of Directors - Member
Katherine Lewiston
Katherine Lewiston is a member of the Board of Directors

Board of Directors - Member
Anne Hartberg
Anne found her way to the theater through her four children, who have a passion for being on stage and in the audience. Their enthusiasm inspired Anne to get involved and share in their love of the arts. She has long enjoyed watching live performances and singing show tunes with her family. As a former elementary school teacher, Anne values creativity and community, and volunteering with the theater gives her the chance to help provide meaningful opportunities for actors and audiences of all ages to connect through the magic of live theater.

Board of Directors - Member
Nathan Zirk
Nathan Zirk is a passionate performer, writer, and advocate, double majoring in Spanish and Musical Theater at the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse. With a history of roles in the community theater and a dedication to fostering creativity, he sits on the marketing and reading committees, and loves to help out wherever he can, especially with graphic design and media. Nathan inspires others through his artistry, advocacy, and vibrant contributions to the arts.
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Board of Directors - Member
Dan Heitman
I’m excited to start my second term on the Viroqua Community Theater board. The camaraderie of working with fellow board members and the diverse talents that join forces to make a production happen are the most motivating aspects of this endeavor. I’ve enjoyed all my on-stage and backstage work with VCT. My most enjoyable on-stage role was having the privilege of playing the Cowardly Lion in VCT’s production of the “Wizard of Oz”.

Board of Directors - Treasurer
Tanja Birke
Tanja Birke joined the board in 2024 and currently serves as the treasurer. During the day, she works with elders in the community and at night, she will most often be found watching plays, writing plays, rehearsing for plays or talking about plays (or watching football). She recently directed S. Gunter Klaus & the Story Before, and has been involved in productions with VCT, The Viroqua Shakespeare Festival, The Players, and Wisconsin Family Theater. She believes that all things can be healed with a little theater.

Board of Directors - Member
Jackson Fortney
Jackson Fortney sits on the Viroqua Community Theater Board of Directors.

Board of Directors - Member
Rebecca Ottoson
Rebecca has supported VCT and many community arts since moving back to Viroqua in 1999. No matter the media she believes that, "Arts are a true expression of oneself and can be a wonderful window into who we are, whether you're the creator or partaker". As a child she many times took the train into Chicago with an aunt to see performances. She took up ballet as a youngster, but after 5 years decided someone else could be The Sugar Plum Fairy! Rebecca looks forward to cheerleading for VCT, educating others about all of the benefits in participating and becoming a member! In her spare time she enjoys researching antiques, walking her elderly dog, and reading. In her full time - she sells real estate!