Broadway

Aaron Shanks Named Interim Executive Director for Theatre Puget Sound

Theatre Puget Sound has appointed Aaron Shanks as Interim Executive Director after Dr. Crystal Yingling's departure. A regional search for a permanent Executive Director is now in progress.

BroadwayWorld·May 8, 2026·via BroadwayWorld

Aaron Shanks Named Interim Executive Director for Theatre Puget Sound

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Shanks succeeds Dr. Crystal Yingling in the Seattle-based regional arts advocacy organization

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Theatre Puget Sound's Board of Directors' Executive Committee 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 the community to fill the vacancy in a collaborative, equitable and engaging process to make sure the organization is set up for success for many more years to come.

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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.

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 25 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.”

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.”

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_Originally reported by [BroadwayWorld](https://www.broadwayworld.com/seattle/article/Theatre-Puget-Sound-Appoints-Aaron-Shanks-as-Interim-Executive-Director-20260508)._

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