Leadership AwardAMBER BURNS

By Andrea Busche

The Leadership Award is presented to a woman who represents outstanding achievement in their field of endeavor.

This award was presented to Amber Burns, whose leadership spans the entire artistic spectrum through her work at the Duluth Playhouse. Additionally, she is an artist herself and possesses talents as an actress, singer, dancer, choreographer and painter.

Burns received nominations for the award from Ann Primozich and BreAnn Graber, both of whom have children enrolled in programming at the Playhouse. Their nominations included the following highlights:

“As a true leader, Amber empowers those around her to do good work, and is always overly humble when given compliments or kudos for her efforts.”

“Excellence in leadership is ultimately defined by the ways in which your leadership influences others, how well you demonstrate inclusion for all, and how well you have cultivated the relationships around you. This is Amber.”

Duluth Playhouse

In her role as artistic director of the family theater and education programming for the Duluth Playhouse, which also includes work for the NorShor Theatre and St. Louis County Depot, Burns wears many hats.

“My job is twofold,” she explained. “I oversee all of the family theater productions. I get the kids auditioning and assemble a team.

“I also run the educational programming. This is mainly to help students and young actors with being in a play or musical. We teach artistic habits that they can use in everyday life, such as confidence and collaboration. We also teach things like stage direction, choreography and more.”

The Playhouse shut down operations during the pandemic. However, Burns continued teaching dance classes and workout classes — virtually — throughout this time.

“I wanted to continue engaging our audience,” she said.

Burns and her team are looking forward to their upcoming productions, which will be presented this coming summer: “James and the Giant Peach,” and “High School Musical.”

A perfect fit

For Burns, her current job is a perfect fit. Originally from the Chaska/Chanhassen, Minnesota area, she earned a bachelor’s degree in art education from the University of Minnesota Duluth, and later, a master’s degree in arts administration from the University of Denver online.

“I kind of fell into this position,” Burns said of her current job. “I’m very passionate about art in general, and this opportunity came up. It’s everything I love in one job.”

Burns has also served on the board for the Arrowhead Regional Arts Council. She is still involved with this organization, now serving as a grant reviewer and community panelist. She has also worked as a grant reviewer for the Minnesota State Arts Board, and as a spotlight evaluator for the Hennepin Theatre Trust.

Art and other interests

Additionally, Burns is an artist herself. She enjoys acting, singing, dancing, choreography and painting. She has personally performed in productions of “42nd Street,” “Mamma Mia,” and “Singing in the Rain.”

She and her husband, Bryan, share their home with several pets. They have a dog named Dugger, a cat named Pepper, and a tank full of freshwater fish. In her spare time, Burns also enjoys running and yoga.

Advice

For other people, and specifically women, who want to take on a leadership role in their profession, Burns said, “Start by knowing your own values and what you believe in. Always ask questions and ask for help and support. Finally, seek out guidance and find a mentor.”

Award

Burns wasn’t expecting to receive the Leadership Award at the recent Rosie Awards.

“I was very surprised, and I feel so humbled,” she said. “My job is very big, and to know that people recognize that I put in a lot of work and care so much means a lot to me.” D