Meet LaRiche Lamar

LaRiche Lamar is a visionary leader and the driving force behind Empowered Theater & Arts (ETA).

Since founding the organization in 2023, she has transformed this idea into a thriving, inclusive movement that has already served over 145 artists and thousands of audience members across the Valley. With a deep-seated belief that the stage belongs to everyone, LaRiche has dedicated her career to dismantling barriers in the arts. Under her leadership, ETA has produced 20 full-scale performances—including a sold-out movie premiere and three artist-led cabarets—while centering the core values of Dignity, Advocacy, Growth, and Representation.

LaRiche’s approach is defined by "bringing the artists with us everywhere we go". She is a fierce advocate for ensuring that people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) are not just participants, but leaders in every facet of the organization—from set design and marketing to peer mentorship and public relations. Her work has garnered significant support from prestigious partners like the Virginia G. Piper Charitable Trust and the City of Peoria, solidifying ETA as a revolutionary force for creative equity.

Before launching ETA, LaRiche built a career centered on community engagement and professional mentorship. An inspirational performer herself, she continues to dazzle audiences with her warmth and conviction for the arts. Today, she continues to lead ETA with "dignity, gratitude, and purpose," ensuring that every artist she encounters has the tools, respect, and space to reach their full potential.

"LaRiche Lamar started Empowered because she believes everyone should have a chance to be a star. She works hard to make sure our theater is a safe place where artists with disabilities can lead the way. LaRiche loves to show the world how talented our artists are. She is proud to help our creative family grow every day."