Trail Arts Council bids farewell to longtime executive director

After 18 years of service to the arts community in the Lower Columbia region, Nadine Tremblay will be stepping down from her role with the Trail and District Arts Council as she relocates to Victoria for new opportunities.

Tremblay joined the Trail Arts Council team in 2007 and has been instrumental in shaping the cultural vibrancy of the region, the council said in a news release.

Her work has included leading the transformation and growth of the Bailey Theatre, expanding programming across the community, championing professional and emerging artists, and cultivating partnerships that have enriched local access to the arts.

“Serving this community has been one of the great honours of my life,” says Tremblay.

“I never imagined that when I moved to the Kootenays in 2006 that this was where my career would land but I am so happy it did. It has been a privilege to work alongside passionate colleagues, dedicated volunteers, fabulous artists, hard working arts affiliates groups and supporters who believe so deeply in the power of the arts.

“Trail and the surrounding region have inspired me, challenged me, and filled me with pride. I will truly miss this place and the people who make it so special.”

While Tremblay said the decision to leave is bittersweet, she notes that personal circumstances, and a new exciting work opportunity have prompted the move.

The organization has new leadership with the addition of Amelia Ewart as executive and artistic director. Ewart is a longtime performer, art lover and currently sits on the boards of the Rossland Light Opera Players acting as vice president and the Rossland Council for Arts and Culture. She also directs RLOP productions, including the latest show, Into the Woods in which Tremblay performed. Outside of the art world, Ewart has many years’ experience  in project coordination, administration, and management.

Ewart moved to the Trail area from Vancouver in 2022 with her husband, and young son.

“One of the things that made me choose Trail to call home was the amazing community programming, both art, and sport,” she said.

“Music in the Park was a must do, a highlight of our summer. Then getting involved with the various art organizations, we built the most amazing connections. I am constantly in awe of the talent in this area. I really look forward to nurturing and building onto the amazing foundation that Nadine laid out.”

During the transition, Tremblay will provide continued support to the organization and to Ewart into 2026, to ensure continuity for upcoming programming and projects.

“I am sad to go, but incredibly grateful for the years I’ve spent here and for the community that has trusted, encouraged, and collaborated with me,” Tremblay said. “The arts in this region are strong, resilient, and filled with heart. I know they will continue to thrive.”


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