Our Wishes for 2026
For the December Blog, AC|A asked our Cohort Organizations and Steering Committee to submit their proudest moments of 2025, their biggest wishes for Atlanta’s arts ecosystem in the new year, and why they’ve joined the efforts of Arts Capital | Atlanta. Here are just a few to get you thinking (and dreaming) about what Atlanta’s art community could look like if fully capitalized!
What accomplishment are you most proud of in 2025?
Synchronicity is now reaching over 7,000 kids through our tour each year, and our Production Boot Camp is providing paid training to technicians across the metro. Our staff retention is the highest its ever been, and they are a well-oiled machine. We produced the world premiere of The Rocket Men, which was a truly epic, out-of-this-world new play development process. But I think I'm most proud of the number of partnerships and deep, meaningful, arts-laden community engagements we have created this year. We see art deepening understanding, developing empathy, bridging connections, touching hearts on the daily, and it fuels us to keep driving forward.
Rachel May, Producing Artistic Director & Co-Founder, Synchronicity Theatre
In 2025, I am most proud of Whole World Improv Theatre's dedicated effort to elevate and amplify diverse voices through performance. We successfully produced three powerful, specialized show series: El Show Improvisado, performed entirely in Spanish by our Hispanic company members; Black Voices Unscripted, where our all-Black cast masterfully blended humor, history, and heart as they pay tribute to Black moments and movements; and Crazy Rich Asians, a show in which our talented Asian actors explored the beauty, struggle, and complexity of the Asian-American experience.
Emily Reily Russell, Managing Director, Whole World Improv Theatre
I am proud that Ballethnic always shows up with joy and integrity - we keep reinventing ourselves educating and serving our community with dance centering the community. Ballethnic professional dancers performed in Detroit, Pittsburgh, Savannah and Raleigh as well as producing shows at home while teaching in its academy and outreach sites. We are committed to this work!
Nena Gilreath, CoFounding Director, Ballethnic Dance Company
What’s your wish for Atlanta’s Arts Ecosystem in 2026?
Flourishing! The arts community is such a beautiful and POWERFUL place, but many of us are feeling the pains that come with the changes in funding. I want us all to succeed and grow together!
Senitra Heath, Executive Director, Broadway on Bankhead
I wish for the Arts Ecosystem to be respected more in the funding community. Atlanta is the mecca of the South and the arts scene plays an important role in contributing to the success of the city's popularity. We can be better and stronger with the help of the community.
Michael Thomas, Chairman, Caribbean American Cultural Arts Foudnation Inc
My wish for Atlanta’s arts ecosystem in 2026 is a more connected and inclusive creative community—one that collaborates boldly, shares resources, and embraces design as a vital tool for learning, equity, and community growth. Above all, I hope every Atlanta resident feels welcomed and inspired by the arts.
Laura Flusche, Executive Director, MODA
Why is your organization involved in AC|A?
I’m involved in Arts Capital because I believe in a truly cohesive arts community—one that works collectively to secure sustainable funding. Atlanta is rich with vibrant arts organizations, yet our sector is too often overlooked. By combining our resources, our voices, and our passion, we can make a meaningful impact and clearly demonstrate the value and strength of Atlanta’s arts community.
Natalie DeLancey, Executive Director, City Springs Theatre Company
I believe so strongly in the power of collective action and it's been truly inspiring to see arts organizations and funders come together and reimagine the funding landscape in the Metro Atlanta area. We're stronger together, and it feels really great to be part of an organization that centers collaboration.
Eve Krueger, General Manager, Out Front Theatre Company
