Ely is located in one of the most beautiful places on Earth, surrounded by a pristine wilderness that fuels creativity. People of all backgrounds draw inspiration from its rich forests, diverse wildlife, pristine lakes, and abundant plant life. This natural beauty serves as the perfect stage for Ely’s vibrant arts scene.
Recently, the area has seen an uptick in shows and events, partly thanks to key figures like Jacob White and Ian Lah, who have been instrumental in this cultural renaissance. Art is a unifying force that fosters a sense of community, invites local pride, and showcases regional heritage and cultural legacy. Regardless of age, beliefs, or values, the arts bridge differences and bring people together. This principle is at the heart of Jacob and Ian’s tireless efforts to elevate the performing arts in our unique town.
Jacob White, who moved from New York City to Ely in 2018, stepped into the role of director at Ely's Historic State Theater in March 2024, four years after its grand reopening. His passion for filmmaking and community-building led to the creation of the Ely Film Festival, which will celebrate its third year in March 2025.
Ian Lah, a professionally trained singer, actor, and dancer and an Ely Memorial High School alum, took on the role of artistic director at the Northern Lakes Arts Association (NLAA) in May 2022. Ian is dedicated to making high-quality arts experiences accessible and nurturing to the local creative community. Together, Jacob and Ian are committed to ensuring the arts continue to thrive in Ely, fostering community engagement and unity. In our conversation, they shared insights into why enhancing Ely’s creative landscape is so essential.
Why do you think the arts are essential for small cities like Ely?
“The arts bring meaning to our lives and provide a communal space for creating that meaning together,” Jacob remarks, as he works to extend the State Theater's role in hosting community events.
Ian expounds on the role of the arts in fostering acceptance—of people and their differences. “Offering art or performances that resonate with others is like saying, 'I accept you for who you are and want to share this experience with you.'” He explains how laughing, clapping, and being moved alongside neighbors is a shared endeavor. “When an audience watches a show, something extraordinary happens, creating a shared experience.” Bringing diverse groups together to enjoy these moments fosters a sense of human connection. Celebrating collectively can spark unexpected connections and a swelling sense of pride.
Ian also highlights the importance of having a diverse arts scene in Ely. “Leaning into arts and culture supports a sustainable and diverse economic force.” He speaks about maintaining a steady influx of visitors by hosting events throughout all seasons, ensuring a joyful and vibrant atmosphere year-round. In a city where winter isolation is common, creating a sense of belonging is vital. Events that promote togetherness enhance the living and visiting experience. With the Ely Film Festival, year-round theater performances, art shows and camps, and various music events including Broadway in the Boundary Waters, Jacob and Ian prioritize the community in the best ways.
You have worked hard at creating community involvement and more events. Have you noticed anything significant from these? Does it re-energize Ely?
“More young people are getting involved,” Ian observed, noting the growing excitement and anticipation in town for what’s to come. He praised how the community consistently rises to the occasion, whether it’s providing housing for actors or filling volunteer slots for events.
Jacob discussed the myriad ways the Ely Film Festival fosters community involvement, from volunteering and pre-screening films to hosting visiting filmmakers and participating in screenings and supplemental programs. “Getting involved creates a sense of ownership; this program is by Ely, for the Ely community,” he emphasized.
Both Ian and Jacob highlighted the various ways Ely supports these programs, through everything mentioned above and financial contributions. Ian expressed his admiration for the youth's involvement, noting how it integrates them into a part of the bigger picture of Ely. “Young people can showcase their talents through performances, concerts, and exhibits, which in turn boosts their confidence. As they move into adulthood, they carry a piece of Ely with them. They develop deeper relationships and learn how to process their emotions better, giving life to their feelings,” Ian said. “And they have something to be involved with year-round.”
Image from "Boundary Waters," filmed in Ely, Minnesota
Why is accessibility to the arts essential, and how does it bring people together from different walks of life?
We talked about how the vibrant art scenes in the Twin Cities and Duluth might be out of reach for families in the Iron Range, making Ely an exceptional place to cultivate a thriving arts community.
"I'm trying to find ways to reach more people; art affects our lives whether we like it or not," Ian said passionately. He spoke about linking the art scenes in the Iron Range towns with a thread leading back to Ely. "If we can better connect the Range, the whole area can lean into this diverse economy mindset."
Ely's appetite for cultural enrichment has been evident since its early days and only grew throughout the 20th century. Ely’s Historic State Theater, among various theaters and an opera house, emerged as a town beacon. Despite setbacks, it has remained a gathering place that unites the community. A collaborative effort revitalized it, making it a source of pride for Ely.
When asked how the arts bring together people with different beliefs, Jacob said, "It just does; it's magic!"
What is your hope for the arts here, and what inspires you to bring more of it to Ely?
Jacob shared, “I hope we continue supporting the arts by attending shows, concerts, movie screenings, and festivals. I'd like to see more people from greater Minnesota visit Ely specifically for arts events. I believe there's great potential to develop our workforce with marketable creative and technical skills, offering new outlets for expression. In 2025, Ely's Historic State Theater hopes to launch new media production workshops, providing local community members with the equipment, instruction, and resources to tell their own stories and hone highly marketable skills.”
Ian added, “I hope that as the arts become more accessible, people feel welcome enough to experience them. Once people see what the community offers, they can’t forget.”
We discussed how simply showing up allows individuals to take what they need from the experience, whether it’s personal or shared. Ian emphasized investing in Ely's youth: "How can we continually open doors so people can see there are different opportunities out there that can use their passions?” He also mentioned how the young can influence the older generation by reminding them of activities they once loved. “The youth invigorate things and bring a fresh approach that can unite people across all ages. In 10-15 years, their success will be linked to our town, and who knows what that could look like. Let’s make this a place they will never forget and want to give back to in the future.”
Even in the stillness of winter, there is beauty to absorb, yet there is a potential for restlessness. Ely has the potential to set a nationwide example, demonstrating how a city and its people can flourish year-round through the arts. Cultural engagement can sustain small towns during shoulder seasons by building community spirit, drawing in tourists, and offering economic advantages.
Through various events, more people get to experience Ely's magic and recognize the power of a small community. Ian perfectly encapsulates this sentiment: "There are two experiences: the experience of being a part of and the experience of witnessing, and both are equally powerful."
Ely is already delivering unforgettable experiences to its community and visitors through what the area provides. The creative arts are the perfect addition to what makes this special city enchanting.
Theater images by Ian Lah
