Larry Bottjen acted in VPA's first play ever in 1976 and was also a member of VPA's original Board of Directors, where he has served four, three year terms. Larry has participated in dozens of VPA's productions from light board operator to director. Larry directed the award winning production Of Mice and Men, Beauty and the Beast, The Spitfire Grill and, more recently,  Babes in Toyland. Larry holds a BS and MA in Education and directs VPA's touring wing Education Through Inspiration.   Larry's next project will be The Wizard of Oz.

As a CPA with the public accounting firm of Swalling and Associates, Janet brings a strong background in finance and business. Together with her three children, she has participated in several VPA productions including Scrooge!, The Sound of Music, It’s A Wonderful Life, and Wait Until Dark. Her goal as Treasurer will be to continue to ensure the financial stability and the strategic planning for VPA, a truly valuable community asset.

Originally from Texas, Garry Forrester found his way to the Valley Performing Arts several years ago when he auditioned for, and received, a leading role in VPA's BEAUTY AND THE BEAST. Since that time, Garry has found himself involved in additional productions and has brought his two wonderful children Albree and Donald into the theatre as well. Garry is now the theatre's Executive Director and looks forward to the years ahead with a vision of great progress and a bright future for the Valley Performing Arts.

One year after accepting the position of Marketing Director, Sam still thinks it’s a great organization to work for. Her priorities are: her family, her job and then her community giving. When not producing a play program she gives her efforts to the Mat Su Sertoma Club, a service to Mankind volunteer organization that focuses on providing volunteer efforts in our Valley.

Jessica Mothershead was born and raised here in Wasilla. She’s never actually been in a production at VPA but loves watching the performances, and has always been enthused about community theatre. She is an active member of her church and charitable organizations. Jessica is currently enrolled in University of Anchorage and is planning on majoring in Criminal Justice. In her spare time she spends it with her husband Nick and her dog Otis. She is ecstatic about VPA and its productions to come.

 Mike’s family moved to the Valley in the mid 60’s with his large family- he’s one of seven. Many might have seen him in action coaching basketball, soccer or track when he coached our youth for 10 years. He also spent five years at Cornerstone Christian School as their athletic director. Since his two girls are grown he turned in his whistle and found a home here at VPA five years ago. With only working part-time Mike has lots of time on his hands for his favorite past time - fly fishing. Ask him about where the fish are biting and he’ll ask "What kind?" He ties his own flies and enjoys the sport so much he counted just to see how many he caught and released in a year- that number was 850.