MACT

Rachel Bohnsack of Ramsey, Minnesota, is being honored with the Special Recognition Award by the American Association of Community Theatre (AACT). The 2025 AACT National Awards will be presented at an awards ceremony during AACTFest 2025 National Theatre Festival in Des Moines, Iowa. To participate in all the exciting AACTFest 2025 events during June 25-28, 2025, register at aact.org/25.

The AACT Special Recognition Award is presented to persons and organizations whose contributions are far-reaching and of a special nature. Visit aact.org/awards for information on all AACT National Awards, 2025 AACT Award winners, and previous honorees.

Rachel is a passionate arts leader, educator, and visionary whose work has transformed lives and communities through theatre. As the Co-Founder and Executive Director of Northern Starz Center for the Performing Arts, she has spent over a decade creating inclusive, inspiring opportunities for performers of all ages and abilities. Since Northern Starz’ founding as a nonprofit children’s theatre in 2012, Rachel has not only overseen the organization’s growth but has also choreographed more than 60 musicals and produced over 100 productions. With a deep commitment to accessibility and creativity, she has developed intentional programming for every stage of life: from K-12 education and adult theatre to specialized programs for veterans, seniors, and individuals with disabilities. Her initiatives include The Willow Tree Project (55+), Starz & Stripes (veterans), the Penguin Project series (individuals with special needs), and Camp Under the Starz, an all-abilities sleepaway theatre and art camp.

Alongside Co-Founder and Artistic Director Kyle Frederickson, Rachel helped transform a former medical clinic into a dynamic arts campus that now features a 90-seat black box theatre, 150-seat event center, dance studio, K-2 performance space, three music/voice studios, a scene shop, costume room, and more – all fueled by a small but mighty team and an army of volunteers.

While administrative leadership is her primary role, Rachel still takes the stage when she can… most recently in 26 Pebbles, performed at MACT*FEST (Best of Fest Winner) and AACT Regionals 2025. Her favorite works are those that blend history and education, challenging audiences while sparking conversation and connection.

AACT provides networking, resources, and support for America’s theatres. AACT represents the interests of more than 7,000 theatres across the United States and its territories, as well as theatre companies with the U.S. Military Services overseas.