With a distinguished career spanning over two decades, Nolan brings a wealth of experience, creativity, and a profound passion for innovative and inclusive storytelling to Kansas City. Prior to joining Unicorn Theatre, Ernie served as the Executive Artistic Director of Nashville Children’s Theatre (NCT).

He has been recognized for his excellence in theatre, receiving the Illinois Theatre Association’s 2014 award for Excellence in Theatre for Young Audiences. Nolan’s extensive experience includes his tenure as Artistic Director of Emerald City Theatre, where he pioneered The Little Theatre, the nation’s first performance space dedicated to interactive and immersive theatrical experiences for early theatre goers ages five and under.

Nolan’s impressive resume includes directing and choreographing world premieres by Tony-nominated artists and adapting beloved storybook favorites into captivating theatrical productions. His work has been showcased both nationally and internationally.

He holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Musical Theatre Performance from the University of Michigan and a Master of Fine Arts in Directing from The Theatre School at DePaul University. During his time in Chicago, he directed several diverse works, including Love and Human Remains which won New City’s Best Play of the Year Award. Nolan also served on the faculty of The Theatre School at DePaul University and helped develop new work at Chicago Dramatists.