TCAN Names New Executive Director

NATICK, MA — The Center for Arts in Natick has appointed Erin Basile as its next executive director. Basile will take over the role from David Lavalley on Jan. 1, 2026.

Lavalley will conclude 22 years of service in the role and transition into a new position as Strategic Advisor at TCAN.

At the organization’s Annual Benefit event on Oct. 18, the TCAN Board of Directors also voted to name Lavalley Executive Director Emeritus, recognizing his decades of leadership and enduring impact on TCAN’s success.

Basile has been part of TCAN’s leadership team for more than a decade, beginning her tenure in 2014 as Theatre Operations Manager. During that time, she has taken on roles of increasing responsibility, including Program Director and, since 2022, Associate Director.

She has overseen artist booking, community programming, budget development, staff supervision, donor relations and policy planning, and has played a key role in shaping TCAN’s most recent Strategic Plan.

During her time at TCAN, Basile established strong relationships with national booking agencies, securing appearances by acclaimed artists including Cowboy Junkies, Micky Dolenz, Richard Thompson, 10,000 Maniacs and Bruce Hornsby.

She has also expanded community programming through partnerships such as the Boston Jewish Film Festival and the Walnut Hill School for the Arts.

“Erin brings a deep knowledge of TCAN, strong community connections, and a vision for the future that the Board enthusiastically supports,” said Michael Collins, Chair of the TCAN Board of Directors. “We are confident she will guide TCAN to new heights while honoring the values that have made it a cornerstone of the MetroWest cultural community.”

“I am grateful for the Board’s confidence and honored to serve as TCAN’s next Executive Director,” said Erin Basile. “Our goal is to continue presenting exceptional artists while reaching higher to bring performers of even greater national stature to our stage. At the same time, we will renew our commitment to supporting emerging artists and to growing community programming that is both relevant and inclusive. I look forward to building on the strong foundation established under David’s leadership.”

Under Lavalley’s direction since 2004, TCAN has become one of the region’s most respected arts organizations, attracting more than 30,000 patrons annually to its 275-seat performance space and second-floor cinema.

Lavalley led the renovation of TCAN’s historic firehouse, expanded programming, and guided the organization through significant growth.

Last year, his accomplishments at TCAN were recognized by Middlesex Savings Charitable Foundation as the recipient of its 2024 John R. Heerwagen Award for Nonprofit Leadership, commending “a resilient nonprofit leader whose contributions have significantly enhanced the well-being of community residents within the Foundation's community.”

“It has been the honor of a lifetime to serve TCAN and the community for the past 22 years,” said David Lavalley. “I am proud of what we have accomplished together and excited for what lies ahead under Erin’s leadership. She is the right person to carry TCAN’s mission forward, and I look forward to supporting her in my new role as Strategic Advisor.”