Longtime volunteer becomes new Executive Director of VPA

WASILLA — Longtime volunteer and board member Spencer Rotach is the new director of the Valley Performing Arts Center.

Rotach has been involved with VPA since 2012. She said that she started out volunteering on and off stage and eventually became a board member. She has served on the board leading up to her transition to the Executive Director position.

"It feels great. I feel like I've finally been able to settle into my new role here at VPA," Rotach said.

Rotach has lived in the Mat-Su Valley since she was a sophomore and graduated from Colony High School in 2010. She said that she always wanted to try acting but she was very shy as a teenager and young adult.

"I love it. People become somebody else. I think that's so cool," Rotach said "I think productions are very special and transport people to a different place. There's something special about doing theater that's for sure."

Rotach said that volunteering with VPA was her first time stepping into the world of theater, and the experience has helped become more confident. She said that she greatly appreciates the fun and nurturing environment at VPA that helped people like her connect with creative and caring community members.

"I feel very well supported," Rotach said. "It's such an amazing sense of community. I call it my VPA family."

VPA is the Mat-Su Valley's sole community theater. Locals from all walks of life to participate are welcome to participate.

Rotach said there's a lot of talent that cycles through their doors and the hard work volunteers put is clear for the audience to see. She said VPA is a valuable community resource and one of her main goals as the new Executive Director is to raise awareness for it so more people can enjoy their productions either as a participant or spectator.

"We're creating some really amazing shows," Rotach said. "I think it's an incredible thing to share with friends and family."

VPA is always seeking volunteers for a variety of duties, whether it's acting, directing, light and sound, stage construction, or making props and costumes. Rotach said it's a lot of work but it's always fun work and it's always worth it in the end.

"People don't really realize how much goes into a production," Rotach said. "It's a cool volunteer opportunity. Usually we can find something for everybody."

VPA is currently showcasing a local adaptation of "The 39 Steps" through Oct. 1.

The next VPA production, "Into the Woods" runs from Oct. 20 to Nov. 5.

Showtimes start at 7 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays, and 2 p.m. on Sundays.

For tickets and more information, visit

Contact Mat-Su Valley Frontiersman reporter Jacob Mann at jacob.mann@frontiersman.com