Theatre Puget Sound appoints Interim Executive Director
Theatre Puget Sound (TPS) extends its sincere thank you to former Executive Director Dr. Crystal Yingling for their service and contributions to the entire theatre community as they move on to pursue new opportunities. To ensure seamless ongoing support for the collective vibrant arts community, the Board of Directors’ Executive Committee has appointed a six-month term-limited Interim Executive Director, Aaron Shanks, and is actively implementing TPS leadership continuity plans. The Board looks forward to engaging with our community to fill the vacancy in a collaborative, equitable and engaging process to make sure TPS is set up for success for many more years to come.
Recognizing former Executive Director Dr. Crystal Yingling
During their tenure, Dr. Yingling strengthened TPS in meaningful and measurable ways, including expanding membership, increasing earned revenue to record levels, and growing cornerstone programs like Stage Workers Week and the Gregory Awards. Their leadership also led to major organizational milestones such as securing a renewed Seattle Center contract with the City of Seattle, launching the new Patron and Associate membership types, improving accessibility, and investing in long-term facility enhancements. TPS is deeply grateful for the vision and dedication they brought to the organization.
Welcoming Interim Executive Director Aaron Shanks
Aaron Shanks brings decades of experience in arts performance, leadership, and advocacy to guide the organization forward during this transition. TPS remains fully operational, with all programs and services continuing uninterrupted, and looks ahead to celebrating the Gregory Awards this October. The Board of Directors unanimously appointed Aaron Shanks to the interim leadership role while the organization begins conducting a comprehensive regional search for the next Executive Director. “With a career spanning over 30 years in the Pacific Northwest arts community, Aaron Shanks brings a wealth of experience as a performer and in nonprofit leadership, audience development, and arts advocacy,” said TPS Board Co-Chair Ry Armstrong. “We are beyond lucky to have him step up to lead alongside us.”
Aaron has held key leadership roles including Director of Marketing at Paizo Inc. and Marketing Manager at Village Theatre. His deep artistic roots include work with Seattle Children’s Theatre, Village Theatre, and the 5th Avenue Theatre, alongside his status as a proud member of Actors’ Equity Association. This combination of professional marketing and deep-rooted performance experience ensures he understands the unique needs of both the organization and the individual artists it serves.
Additionally, Aaron brings significant business acumen to the interim role from 17 years in commercial finance at Evergreen Business Capital. His extensive governance experience includes a six-year tenure on the Board of Directors for Showtunes Theatre Company and his recent service as Secretary on the Board of Theatre Puget Sound. This unique blend of executive marketing expertise, financial discipline, and lived artistic experience positions him to lead TPS effectively through its current phase of regional arts advocacy.
Looking Ahead
TPS remains committed to fostering a vibrant and equitable performing arts community. “Stepping into this role is a privilege and an act of service to a community that has been my artistic home for many, many years,” said Interim Executive Director Aaron Shanks. “Our primary focus in this season is to strengthen and streamline our operations in alignment with our strategic plan. I am enthusiastic about supporting our incredible staff and ensuring that Theatre Puget Sound remains a resilient, equitable, and welcoming environment where all stages of the performing arts can truly thrive.”