Interview with Ashley Warwick: The Colonial Theatre’s New Director of Marketing and Communications
As we welcome Ashley Warwick to The Colonial Theatre team, we sat down with her to learn more about her background, her passion for the arts, and her vision for the future of our historic venue.
Q: Welcome to The Colonial Theatre, Ashley! Can you tell us a bit about your background and what led you to this role?
Thank you! I’m so excited to be here. I truly believe that The Colonial is a crown jewel of our community and I’m honored to help promote its noble mission—to inspire and invite participation in the cultural conversation.
I’ve been a professional musician and entertainer for over 20 years, with more than a decade spent in Hollywood, immersed in the entertainment industry. In 2004 I earned my bachelor’s degree in Professional Music from Berklee College of Music, where I focused on honing my craft as a jazz vocalist and performer. Over the years, I’ve developed expertise in marketing, promotions, and creative storytelling through a variety of entrepreneurial endeavors then earned my MBA in Media and Communications in 2023.
After moving to Bethlehem in 2017, I became deeply involved in the local arts scene, when I started my country and western band, Ashley Jane’s Hootenanny with my husband, Brian Warwick, and two long-time Bethlehem residents: Chris Cruger and the late, great Rod Haywood. I’ve also been a professional jazz vocalist since I was 16—I call it Bombshell Jazz. This was my primary focus during my undergraduate work at Berklee College of Music. This new role at The Colonial is the perfect way to combine my marketing expertise with my passion for music, film, and entertainment.
Q: What excites you most about working at The Colonial Theatre?
The Colonial is such a special place—a historic gem that serves as a cultural and entertainment hub for Bethlehem and beyond. I’m excited to further strengthen our connection with the community by showcasing events and sharing the stories that make these experiences so memorable. My goal is to inspire people to discover everything The Colonial has to offer. This role is bursting with potential for creative storytelling and community engagement, and I’m eager to celebrate our history while bringing fresh ideas to life.
Q: How do you plan to approach your work as The Colonial’s first Director of Marketing & Communications?
My focus will be on sharing authentic stories that celebrate our local experience, enhance culturally enriching and entertaining events, and foster meaningful connections with our community. I want to share The Colonial’s story in a way that resonates with our audience and celebrates the arts in the North Country. This means not only promoting our events but also highlighting the people, history, and culture that make The Colonial so unique.
Q: As someone with a strong connection to Bethlehem, how does that influence your vision for The Colonial?
I’ve lived in Bethlehem for about eight years, so while I am still new compared to a lot of folks, I believe I have a deep understanding of what makes this community so special. It’s why we chose to move here! I want The Colonial to continue being a place where people feel connected, inspired, entertained, and proud of their local arts scene. My vision is to build on the theater’s rich history while embracing fresh ideas that reflect the creativity and diversity of the North Country.
Q: What can the community expect to see from The Colonial’s marketing channels under your direction?
You’ll see more behind-the-scenes content, exclusive interviews, and storytelling that highlights our extraordinary performers, staff, volunteers, partners, supporters, and the wonderful films that grace our screen. I also want to focus on creating opportunities for deeper engagement—whether that’s through interactive social media features, sneak peeks at upcoming events, or celebrating the local culture that makes our community unique. My goal is to make The Colonial feel even more connected to the people it serves, so expect content that entertains, informs, and connects the community to the magic happening on and off the stage and screen.
Q: Finally, what’s one fun fact about you that people might not know?
I grew up in the touristy little mountain town of Sisters, Oregon and I miss it dearly. Bethlehem shares many of the same charms, which always makes me feel right at home! I am so grateful to live in our beautiful little mountain town. I am honored to serve in this role at The Colonial and deepen my connection to the community I now proudly call home.