Mitch Nugent crafts experiences that hit like espresso for the soul — fresh, awakening, and full of energy.

He’s the Founding Executive Producer of Prima Theatre, where for over 15 years he’s sparked a wave of cultural vitality in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. Under his leadership, Prima has become a nationally recognized force, drawing Broadway icons like Stephen Schwartz, Billy Porter, and Shoshana Bean — and generating over $146 million in local economic impact.

With nearly three decades in arts leadership and experience design, Mitch creates energizing performing arts experiences for audiences and artists — while also helping leaders, creatives, and communities design lives and moments that pulse with clarity, wonder, and emotional resonance. From shaping Prima into what Stroll Magazine calls “Pennsylvania’s premier boutique theater” to working with organizations like Adobe, Pfizer, Willow Valley, and Penn Medicine, he crafts environments where people come alive.

At Prima, he’s cultivated audiences 20 years younger than the national average, forged cross-sector partnerships, and championed innovation in the arts. His leadership has earned recognition from the Central PA Business Journal, Jefferson Foundation, and Steinman Foundation, and he was named a Baldwin Fellow by the Lancaster County Community Foundation.

As NPR’s Marquis Lupton puts it:

“He transforms culture, builds connection, and moves community forward.”

Beyond the stage, Mitch is a sought-after speaker and consultant on leadership, creativity, and culture. His keynotes — including The Awe Advantage and Designing Culture That Sings — help leaders and organizations harness wonder, spark joy, and create bold experiences that resonate.

He lives in Lancaster City with his wife, Diana, Prima’s Resident Costume Director, and their two sons, Aiden and Sutter.