Tamara Kangas Erickson. Photo: Chanhassen Dinner Theatres
Prior Lake’s Tamara Kangas Erickson will build upon a “remarkable legacy.”
In 1981, Tamara Kangas Erickson set foot on the stage of Chanhassen Dinner Theatres (CDT) for the first time, playing Marta Von Trapp in the Sound of Music. Now, she has been named the new president and art director of the theater.
Over the past 15 years in her role as vice president at CDT, Erickson developed a close working relationship with the previous artistic director, president and beloved member of the CDT community, Michael Brindisi. When he died in early February, he left large shoes to fill. “[Tamara’s] deep appreciation for the arts, coupled with her unwavering dedication to our staff, artists, employees and audiences, make her the perfect leader to continue and build upon the remarkable legacy established by Michael Brindisi,” says Jim Jensen, CDT co-owner and board member, via press release.
“I am deeply honored and incredibly excited that the board has entrusted me to lead Chanhassen Dinner Theatres in our next chapter,” Erickson says via press release. “Michael Brindisi created something truly special here—a vibrant place where art and community flourish. I am wholeheartedly committed to working alongside our incredibly talented team to ensure Chanhassen Dinner Theatres’ continued success.”
Currently, the theater is performing Grease, which Brindisi directed and Erickson choreographed. Upcoming main stage productions include Irving Berlin’s White Christmas, running from October 10–February 7, 2026. Next spring, the theater is performing Guys and Dolls, running from February 13, 2026–September 26, 2026.
Chanhassen Dinner Theatres
501 West 78th St., Chanhassen; 952.934.1525
Facebook: Chanhassen Dinner Theatres
Instagram: @chanhassendt
X: @ChanhassenDT
