About Us
Finding Inspiration in Every Turn
Discover more about our vision, our team, and how we make a difference in our communities.
Who We Are & What We Do
Inspiration's Edge was born from a shared vision to co-create a theater that truly reflects the diverse voices and vibrant spirit of our local hi-desert community. As a mobile theater, we perform in found theater spaces all over the Morongo Basin, bringing the magic of theatre right to everyone's doorstep. By transforming everyday spaces into stages, we increase the inclusion and availability of performing arts, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to experience and participate in the transformative power of theater.
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At Inspiration's Edge, we believe every individual has life experiences worthy of contribution. That’s why we strive to provide a platform for artists of all backgrounds and experiences to showcase their talents and share their stories with audiences far and wide, impacting and inspiring others through the power of performing arts. Whether you’re a seasoned performer or stepping onto a stage for the first time, there’s a place for you here at Inspiration’s Edge.
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Our commitment to inclusion extends beyond our performances to every aspect of our organization. We actively seek out opportunities to collaborate with local artists, businesses, community groups, and organizations to ensure that our productions authentically represent the rich tapestry of the Morongo Basin. From casting to production design, we know that it is through embracing and celebrating our differences that we truly thrive as a community.
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But Inspiration’s Edge is more than just a theater – it’s a gathering place, a creative hub, and an inspired home for a vibrant community of artists, dreamers, and innovators who join together to push the boundaries of creativity and support one another in their artistic endeavors. Whether you’re joining us for a show, participating in one of our workshops or events, or simply stopping by to soak in the creative energy, you’ll always find a warm welcome and a supportive community here at Inspiration’s Edge.
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So come on in, take a seat, and let yourself be inspired by the magic of Inspiration’s Edge. Together, let’s celebrate the diversity of our community, push the boundaries of creativity, and create art that inspires and uplifts us all. Welcome to the edge of possibility. Welcome to Inspiration’s Edge.
Mission
The Mission of Inspiration’s Edge is to develop and foster a lifelong love and appreciation for performing arts through community collaboration that allows us to explore and expand the edge of inspiration and creativity.
Vision
The Vision of Inspiration’s Edge is to serve as a keystone provider and supporter of performing arts in our local and remote communities.
Values
Safety
Promote an environment that emphasizes both physical and emotional safety.
Empathy
Prioritize listening and understanding to build connection and trust.
Inclusivity
Maintain environments where people feel welcomed, respected, valued, and can be their authentic selves.
Integrity
Behave ethically in all situations with a focus on honesty and personal and group responsibility and accountability.
Co-Creativity
Strive to openly share ideas and recognize alternative possibilities.
Growth
Maintain a growth mindset and embrace opportunities for both individual and organizational development.
Innovation
Honor new ideas, continuously try something new, and view mistakes and challenges as wonderful opportunities to learn and improve.
Celebration
Actively recognize and express appreciation for both individual and group contributions.
Board of Directors
Committee Members
Kevin Hayles
Virginia Sulick
Tiffany Crocker
Gabriel Figueredo
Graham Cooley
Heidi Marshall
Emily Riley
Community Collaborators
Memberships, Associations, & Certifications
Our Story
In April 2024, the two collaborated on Daddy Long Legs, a musical centered on growth and potential beyond socioeconomic barriers. Double-cast with two sets of actors, the production emphasized collaboration over competition and reinforced their shared belief in theatre as a space for co-creation, support, and personal development. It was during this production that they realized they wanted to build a theatre company that embodied these values.​Planning began in May 2024, and by June, Inspiration’s Edge was officially incorporated and secured 501(c)(3) nonprofit status.
Inspiration’s Edge began with a shared vision between founders Liyan McNeltier and Ian Ferris, rooted in their passion for inclusive, imaginative, and community-centered theatre. In 2022, Liyan made her directorial debut with her original work Almost Love: A Cabaret for Those Unlucky in Love, where she discovered a deep commitment to innovation, co-creativity, and inclusion. In 2023, Ian directed Peter and the Starcatcher, transforming discarded props and furniture into a stunning set and fostering a supportive, emotionally open space for his cast to explore their artistry.​​
​Recognizing how quickly everything was falling into place, they gathered a team of like-minded artists and supporters to establish the organization’s foundation and bylaws.​Since its official debut in October 2024, Inspiration’s Edge has produced three shows, held a successful fundraiser, hosted open auditions, and begun rehearsals for its first full-scale staged production.
Now, just 10 months young, the organization is already making good on its mission: bringing theatre directly to the community, removing barriers to access, fostering creativity, and continually expanding the edge of inspiration.