Meet the Member: Lisa Adams, President of the Board of Carriage House Players

Lisa Adams serves as President of the Board for Carriage House Players, a nonprofit community theater organization that has been enriching Fayetteville’s arts scene since 1987. Lisa has been involved since the very beginning, joining the group when it was first formed and remaining a dedicated member for nearly four decades—a testament to her deep commitment to the arts and to this community.

Stepping into the role of president earlier than expected, Lisa brings a steady, thoughtful leadership style to the board. As president, she acts as a guiding presence and the public face of the organization, helping meetings remain focused and productive while ensuring decisions are made collaboratively. Her approach is rooted in support and clarity: keep the process moving forward, empower the board, and make sure Carriage House Players continues to thrive.

While theater has always satisfied Lisa’s creative side, she says the greatest joy of Carriage House Players lies in the people. Over the years, the organization has fostered friendships that extend far beyond the stage—many of which Lisa has cherished for 20 years or more. These lasting relationships are, to her, one of the most meaningful outcomes of community theater.

Choosing a favorite production is no easy task, but several stand out as particularly memorable. The Music Man, staged for the company’s 10th anniversary in honor of Miss Adnia and featuring her former students alongside a live orchestra, holds a special place in Lisa’s heart. Other productions she recalls fondly include 1776, Nunsense, and Shining Lives, the powerful story of the Radium Girls, which Lisa describes as especially impactful.

Looking ahead, Carriage House Players’ upcoming season includes Oklahoma, followed by They Promised Her the Moon, a production Lisa will direct. The play tells the story of Jerrie Cobb, one of the Mercury 13 women who trained for spaceflight and exceeded expectations, only to see the program ultimately abandoned. Lisa sees it as an important and moving story—one that deserves to be told.

Tickets for Oklahoma and future productions can be purchased by calling 931-433-1300.

Through her leadership, passion for storytelling, and decades-long dedication, Lisa Adams continues to help ensure that Carriage House Players remains a cornerstone of Fayetteville’s creative community and a place where stories—and friendships—take center stage.