Board of Directors

Krista Larson, President

Krista Larson is a seasoned marketing and communications professional with a strong affinity for the creative field. She brings senior leadership experience in strategic planning, business development and management in the private and public sectors. Over the past 20 years, Krista and her family have had an active life in dance and music. Krista has a passion for the arts, and when she’s not leading student experience and community engagement in the university environment, she enjoys expanding her creativity through writing, photography and finding inspiration in the mountains.

Krista is honoured to be the CPAF president and board chair beginning in the 2019-20 season. She's excited to help build greater awareness of the Festival and broaden its scope and impact. Together, we can promote our youth's talent, strengthen arts in our community, and enrich our future!​

Linda French, Past President and acting Treasurer

Deep in Linda’s background, she had a theatre background. Her career took a different path into law and leadership positions. Even in these roles, Linda applied her creative approach to her work. She brings this creative flare now to her position as the President of the Festival. Linda was drawn to the Festival to engage in the Arts Community by supporting amateur performing artists and an organization that attracts such passionate people. 

Trevor Samer, Vice President

Trevor is a Chartered Professional Accountant, and an alumni of the University of Calgary and has been an active volunteer in the community through numerous organizations. Trevor is excited to have an impactful role in helping showcase amateur artists as well as supporting performing Arts in the community. Although not professionally trained, Trevor is a hobby musician and admirer of the Arts.

Tara Black, Director

Ms. Tara Black has a Bachelor of Commerce and a Masters of Communications Studies from the University of Calgary. She worked in public relations and communications in the oil industry in Calgary and Houston for 25 years, and most recently served a year as Director of Marketing and Communications at Strathcona-Tweedsmuir School. She has passionately served on many volunteer organizations and boards. Tara and her husband, Rick, are proud parents of two daughters, one in university and one in high school, both of whom are very musical and have performed many times at the Calgary Performing Arts Festival. 

Weston Jacques, Director

Nick Robbins, Director

Lisa Hari, Director