Almitra Clerkin, Executive Director (2006- ) at the Erie Playhouse, was born in Bellefonte, Pennsylvania. A graduate of Villa Maria Academy (2006 Alumni of the Year), Almi went on to Gannon University and graduated cum laude with a degree in business management. Before beginning her career at the EP, she served as assistant to the external affairs director at Mercyhurst College, customer service manager at Progressive Insurance Financial Services in Richmond, VA and development director at Villa Maria Academy. Almi began her volunteer years at the Erie Playhouse in 1977 and was hired as Youtheatre Director in 1992. In 2001, she added the duties of development director. Her favorite shows include A Little Night Music (Charlotte) and My Fair Lady (dancing chorus). Almi has directed numerous productions, most recently Hairspray and A Christmas Carol. She looks forward to directing and choreographing Gypsy, as well as The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee, The Color Purple, and 9 to 5: The Musical to round out the 95th Erie Playhouse season in 2012. Almi has been married to husband Shawn for 26 wonderful years and is very proud of their son, Seamus.