LOFT FILM FEST

The Loft Cinema is pleased to announce the appointment of Elise Lopez as its next Executive Director. Lopez will assume leadership of Tucson's beloved nonprofit arthouse later this month, succeeding Peggy Johnson, whose visionary leadership transformed The Loft into one of the nation's most respected independent movie theaters.

Johnson, who founded The Loft as a nonprofit arthouse cinema and has served as its Executive Director since 2002, leaves behind an extraordinary legacy. Under her leadership, The Loft grew from a two-screen theater into a five-screen cultural destination, including Arizona's first permanent outdoor movie screen. During her tenure, The Loft expanded its programming, educational offerings, and community impact, becoming a cornerstone of Tucson's arts and cultural landscape.

Lopez brings nearly 20 years of organizational management, nonprofit leadership, and community engagement experience to the position. Most recently, she served as Vice President of Organizational Operations for Emerge Center Against Domestic Abuse. Prior to joining the Emerge executive team, she served on the organization's board of directors for four years. She has also served on the boards of local arts and community center organizations, including The Loft. A second-generation Tucsonan, Lopez holds a bachelor’s degree in public administration, master’s and doctorate degrees in public health, and an Executive MBA, all from the University of Arizona.

A longtime supporter of The Loft, Lopez has deep personal ties to the theater, recalling that she started coming to The Loft in high school, and her own teenagers had their first moviegoing experiences at the Loft Kids Film Fest.

"The Loft Cinema has held a special place in my heart for many years, both as a movie lover and as someone who values the arts and community," said Lopez. "It is an incredible privilege to join an organization I have admired for so long, and I am excited to help shape its next chapter while preserving the spirit that has made The Loft such a treasured Tucson institution."

Johnson expressed confidence in the organization's future under Lopez's leadership.

“I am thrilled to see Elise step into my role at The Loft. It’s time for a younger generation to take the reins and Elise is a perfect fit. I have total confidence in her ability to take The Loft into its next phase. I know she will be a great leader for our incredible staff, and she will ensure that our world class programming and unique eclectic personality will flourish”

The President of The Loft’s Board of Directors, Jaime Gutierrez, who led the succession process, says, “For 24 years Peggy Johnson has been the guiding light for The Loft Cinema. Her vision, tenacity and passion have contributed to the success of The Loft, making The Loft a premier art house cinema, a true iconic community asset.”

The Loft’s Program Director, Jeff Yanc, who since 2006 has been the creative force behind The Loft, is excited about the future while acknowledging that the last 20 years have been an incredible adventure, saying, “in a national landscape where independent theaters have faced often insurmountable challenges, The Loft has not only survived but thrived here in Tucson thanks to Peggy’s vision and hard work, and now with Elise on board, this next chapter in the story of The Loft Cinema promises to be amazing.”

Longtime donor and Loft board member Stephen Golden echoed that enthusiasm.

"We knew Peggy was going to be a hard act to follow, but with Elise we have found someone with the vision, the love of movies, and the personable nature to work with the fabulous staff, engage with donors, and lead The Loft into the future," said Golden.

As The Loft prepares for its next era, the organization remains committed to its mission of building community through film, education, and cultural experiences while continuing the innovation and growth that have defined its success for decades.
Lopez will begin her role as Executive Director on June 16.

For interview requests, please contact Peggy Johnson at [email protected], Elise Lopez at [email protected] or Jaime Gutierrez at [email protected].

The Loft Cinema was named to Boxoffice Pro's inaugural “Blue Ribbon” List! This first-of-its-kind guide in the movie theater industry honors unparalleled excellence in technology, design, hospitality, and community engagement for all cinema renovations and new builds completed since 2020.

The inaugural list offers a holistic view of the modern movie theater, recognizing cinemas that set operational and presentation benchmarks. Organized by year and region, the guide’s first edition features exceptional cinemas from 45 countries that have opened or upgraded their facilities over the past six years.

Learn more at https://www.boxofficepro.com/blue-ribbon/