Almitra Clerkin, executive director (2006- ) at the Erie Playhouse was born in Bellefonte, Pennsylvania. A graduate of Villa Maria Academy, 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 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). She has directed numerous productions, most recently _ Thoroughly Modern Millie_, Moonlight and Magnolias, and A Year with Frog and Toad. She has been married to husband Shawn for 22 wonderful years and is very proud of her son, Seamus.