Stay ConnectedThis is arts and culture. Unfiltered. Unscripted.
Formerly known as CI to Eye, Arts Unscripted with Monica Holt is a trove of meaningful interviews with executives, artists, and experts across industries. Together with Monica, we’ll explore the way innovation, leadership, and joy drive our industry forward.
A great exhibition or performance can draw people in, but a strong institutional brand shapes how they understand the experience—and whether they feel invited to return.
Kim Jakominich has spent more than 15 years working across publishing, public media, museums, and cultural destinations. Now Chief Brand Officer at the Barnes Foundation and Calder Gardens, she leads an integrated team spanning marketing, communications, publications, design, editorial, and visual resources, helping steward two distinctly different brands while creating a more unified audience experience.
In this episode, Kim reflects on the unexpected path that brought her from Minnesota Public Radio to museum leadership, what she learned by realizing she needed mission-driven work, and how the Barnes's philosophy of "seeing art differently" influences everything from visitor experience to brand strategy. She also takes us inside the creation of Calder Gardens, where art, architecture, and nature come together in an experience intentionally "open to interpretation."
Kim also shares lessons for cultural leaders on breaking down departmental silos, thinking about brand through the eyes of the audience rather than the organizational chart, and reframing innovation as something more meaningful than chasing new technology. For her, the question is ultimately whether an idea removes barriers, sparks curiosity, and helps audiences discover that art has something to say to them.
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LINKS:
Barnes Foundation: https://www.barnesfoundation.org/
Calder Gardens: https://caldergardens.org/
The BrandLab: https://www.thebrandlab.org/
As our attention becomes increasingly fragmented, the value of being fully present together has never been greater. The most memorable experiences go beyond spectacle and create a clear sense of place, invite participation, and give people something meaningful to feel together.
Ann Morrow Johnson has spent her career designing those kinds of experiences. After more than a decade at Walt Disney Imagineering, she now co-leads Gensler's Entertainment practice, applying lessons from theme parks and immersive entertainment to cultural organizations, hospitality, real estate, and other physical spaces.
In this episode, Ann Morrow explores why authenticity matters more than showmanship, how shifting from a scarcity mindset to a value-creation mindset can open up new possibilities, and why growing demand for shared, participatory experiences gives cultural organizations plenty of reason for optimism.
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LINKS:
Gensler 2025 Immersive Industry Report: https://www.gensler.com/gri/immersive-industry-report-2025
No Proscenium: https://www.noproscenium.com/
Join Monica Holt for a live recording of Arts Unscripted with Marc Bamuthi Joseph, an internationally acclaimed cultural strategist, spoken word artist, and Chief of Impact at SOZO.
Bamuthi has built a singular career at the intersection of creativity, leadership, and social impact—from performing on Broadway and co-founding Youth Speaks to shaping civic and cultural strategy at Yerba Buena Center for the Arts and the Kennedy Center. Throughout it all, he has approached art not simply as expression, but as a tool for freedom, connection, and collective possibility.
Recorded live at the 2026 Tessitura Learning and Community Conference, this conversation explores what it means for arts organizations to be true civic partners. Bamuthi and Monica talk about collective joy, why "budgets are moral documents," the idea of using the arts for non-arts outcomes, and what becomes possible when institutions see themselves not just as producers of shows, but as producers of culture and inspiration.
Along the way, Bamuthi reflects on the evolution of his own practice, the role of artists as "edge setters," the grief and resilience that have shaped his recent work, and why—at a moment when inspiration can feel scarce—he still finds hope in the artists and arts leaders who keep choosing this field.
Producer's Note: While Arts Unscripted is on summer hiatus, we're re-sharing a few of our favorite episodes from past seasons. Clive was actually the first guest to sit down and chat with Monica. The YoungArts application is open now through October 6th, so it's the perfect time to revisit how Clive thinks about supporting young, multi-disciplinary artists.
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Can legacy arts institutions innovate like start-ups? Clive Chang thinks so. As President and CEO of YoungArts, he's reimagining how a 40-year-old organization can support today's multi-disciplinary artists—by questioning everything, embracing experimentation, and making space for creative risk.
In this conversation, Clive and host Monica Holt unpack how to disrupt old habits, build a culture of curiosity, and keep tradition from becoming inertia.
Producer's Note: While Arts Unscripted is on summer hiatus, we're re-sharing a few of our favorite episodes from past seasons. Cody recently celebrated Tony Award-winning runs with two Broadway productions: Ragtime and CATS: The Jellicle Ball. With CATS set to close on August 8, it's an apt moment to revisit Cody's reflections on the production (and grab tickets while you still can).
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Great theater starts by creating trusted conditions for talent and creativity to thrive.
Cody Renard Richard is a Tony Award-winning producer and stage manager whose career spans Broadway, television, opera, and even Cirque du Soleil. Along the way, his backstage leadership has shaped acclaimed productions like the 2025 revival of Ragtime and this spring's CATS: The Jellicle Ball.
In this episode, Cody talks about what it really means to lead from behind the scenes, and why stage management is such a powerful training ground for leadership. He reflects on his path through the industry, how he's navigated power and visibility in a field that doesn't always make room for everyone, and what it looks like to advocate for artists and audiences without burning out or losing yourself in the process.
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LINKS:
Cody Renard Richard: https://www.codyrenard.com/
Ragtime at Lincoln Center: https://www.lct.org/shows/ragtime/
CATS: The Jellicle Ball: https://catsthejellicleball.com/
RISE Theatre Directory: https://risetheatre.org/
Producer's Note: While Arts Unscripted is on summer hiatus, we're re-sharing a few of our favorite episodes from past seasons. Carlos Simon is the the inaugural Composer Chair of the Boston Symphony Orchestra and Composer-in-Residence since 2021 at the Kennedy Center. Since we recorded earlier this year, his Good News Mass keeps finding new orchestras and new audiences. With its Midwest premiere on July 31st at Ravinia Music Festival, what better moment to go back and hear how Carlos has built his body of work.
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Music has the power to move a room. For composer Carlos Simon, that effect was first felt in church, where music was both a creative act and a shared experience.
Raised in a family steeped in ministry and musical tradition, Carlos grew up surrounded by gospel, jazz, and the spontaneity of worship. From playing organ by ear during Sunday services to his later work with orchestras, film, and opera, he has built a compositional voice that blurs boundaries: bridging sacred and secular, improvisation and form, tradition and innovation.
In this episode, Carlos traces his path to becoming one of today's most sought-after composers and the first-ever Composer Chair for the Boston Symphony Orchestra. Along the way, he offers insight into the deeply collaborative nature of his work and frames musical composition as an act of service.
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LINKS:
Carlos Simon: https://www.carlossimonmusic.com/
brea(d)th: https://www.carlossimonmusic.com/album/brea-d-th
Monuments: A Suite for DC: https://www.kennedy-center.org/whats-on/festivals-series/250-years-of-us/sounds-of-us/monuments/
The Blacknificent 7: https://www.instagram.com/blacknificentseven/
Producer's Note: While Arts Unscripted is on summer hiatus, we're re-sharing a few of our favorite episodes from past seasons. Shanta Thake is the vision behind Lincoln Center's free Summer for the City festival happening right now through August 8 in New York. It's a good moment to go back and hear how she thinks about building a season for an entire city, not just a subscriber base.
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Shanta Thake sees artistic curation as a practice rooted in curiosity and community connection.
As the Ehrenkranz Chief Artistic Officer at Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts, Shanta is helping redefine what one of the world's most storied institutions can be. Since joining in 2021, she's helped usher in an era of experimentation and access to ensure the arts remain central to New York City's civic life.
In this episode, Shanta reflects on what it means to democratize the programming process, how the arts contribute to community wellbeing, and why leading with curiosity sparks meaningful innovation. She also takes listeners behind the scenes of initiatives like Lincoln Center's West Side Expansion and Summer for the City—efforts rooted in humility, collaboration, and partnership with local communities.
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LINKS
Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts: https://lincolncenter.org/
Summer for the City: https://lincolncenter.org/series/summer-for-the-city/
A festival lasts only a few weeks or months each year, but the work of leading one never stops.
Jeffrey Haydon has spent his career at the helm of some of the country's most respected music festivals, including Ojai, Caramoor, and now Ravinia Festival, where he serves as President and CEO. Drawing on a background that bridges music and business, he has led major capital projects, expanded educational and community programs, and navigated moments of organizational transformation.
In this episode, Jeffrey reflects on what makes festivals such distinctive cultural institutions; the leadership lessons he's learned across three decades in arts management; and how Ravinia continues to balance its rich classical legacy with new audiences, artists, and ideas.
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LINKS
Ravinia Festival: https://www.ravinia.org/
Jim Collins: https://www.jimcollins.com/index.html
The Tony Awards often celebrate the names on a show poster, but every Broadway production is carried by countless artists whose work rarely fits neatly into a category. So in anticipation of this year's awards ceremony, we're spotlighting a few of the performers, collaborators, and creative forces behind nominated productions.
Beth Callen follows her curiosity wherever the music leads. A multi-instrumentalist, songwriter, and educator, she has traveled from indie folk stages and an all-female Guns N' Roses tribute band to some of Broadway's most acclaimed productions, including Head Over Heels, A Strange Loop, Suffs, and now The Lost Boys.
In this episode, Beth discusses the realities of building a career as a working musician; why mentorship matters for the next generation of artists; and how greater visibility for pit musicians can deepen our appreciation for the live magic that happens eight times a week on Broadway.
Links
Beth Callen: https://bethcallen.com/
The Lost Boys: https://www.lostboysmusical.com/
Maestra: https://maestramusic.org/
The Tony Awards often celebrate the names on a show poster, but every Broadway production is carried by countless artists whose work rarely fits neatly into a category. So in anticipation of this year's awards ceremony, we're spotlighting a few of the performers, collaborators, and creative forces behind nominated productions.
Victor Vazquez has spent his career expanding the possibilities of who gets seen onstage and whose stories Broadway embraces. As the founder of X Casting and casting director for CATS: The Jellicle Ball, Victor has helped build one of the most joyful, original, and culturally electric productions of the season from the ground up.
In this conversation, Victor offers a rare look inside the audition room, reflects on what it means to bring Ballroom culture into the spotlight with care and authenticity, and discusses why he remains hopeful about the future of theater and the artists shaping it.
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LINKS
CATS: The Jellicle Ball: https://catsthejellicleball.com/
X Casting: https://www.xcastingnyc.com/
The New York Public Library for the Performing Arts: https://www.nypl.org/locations/lpa
The Tony Awards often celebrate the names on a show poster, but every Broadway production is carried by countless artists whose work rarely fits neatly into a category. So in anticipation of this year's awards ceremony, we're spotlighting a few of the performers, collaborators, and creative forces behind nominated productions.
Allison Blackwell knows the power of ensemble storytelling firsthand. Currently appearing in Ragtime at Lincoln Center Theater as Sarah's Friend, Allison is part of the acclaimed company behind one of Broadway's most resonant productions this season. She has built a career defined by extraordinary versatility, emotional depth, and a deep commitment to collaboration onstage.
In this conversation, Allison reflects on the path that brought her back to theater after nearly pursuing law school; what it has meant to revisit Ragtime across multiple productions; and what recognition for ensemble artists means to her personally.
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LINKS
Allison Blackwell: https://www.allisonblackwell.com/
Ragtime at Lincoln Center Theater: https://www.lct.org/shows/ragtime/
The New York Public Library for the Performing Arts: https://www.nypl.org/locations/lpa
Creative work is often romanticized as spontaneous: a flash of inspiration, a breakthrough moment, a burst of talent. In reality, many artists discover that creativity is less about sudden genius and more about the systems, rituals, and relationships that help ideas grow over time.
For Oliver Richman, creativity has been both an early spark and an evolving practice. As a child, his performances found an audience far beyond his years, from a widely shared rendition of "Defying Gravity" to performing alongside Stevie Wonder at just ten years old. Since then, he has continued exploring new creative paths: studying drama at NYU Tisch, writing and directing numerous projects, and building an online community through his ambitious song-a-day practice.
In this episode, Oliver reflects on balancing spontaneity with structure, building meaningful connections with online audiences, and why creativity thrives when treated as a daily practice.
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LINKS
Oliver Richman: https://oliverrichman.com/
Oliver's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/oliverrichman11/
Oliver's TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@oliverrichman
The New York Public Library for the Performing Arts: https://www.nypl.org/locations/lpa
Arts organizations thrive when teams stop operating in parallel and begin building together.
Take it from the Sydney Symphony Orchestra, which is wrapping its biggest season in over a decade. By creating shared goals across teams and building systems that encourage communication instead of competition, the Symphony has seen unprecedented audience growth in just a few short years.
In this episode, Monica sits down with three leaders from across the organization—Director of Marketing Charles Buchanan, Director of Artistic Planning Melissa King, and Director of Learning & Engagement John Nolan—to explore how deeper collaboration has reshaped both internal culture and audience experience.
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LINKS
Sydney Symphony Orchestra: https://www.sydneysymphony.com/
Emil Kang's The Reprise: https://emilkang.substack.com/
Susan Magsamen has spent her career arguing that creativity and aesthetic experiences are not luxuries, but biological necessities woven into how we heal, learn, and connect.
A researcher, educator, and co-author of the New York Times bestseller Your Brain on Art, Susan has become one of the leading voices in the growing field of neuroaesthetics: the science of how the arts and sensory experiences shape the brain and body. Through her work with the International Arts + Mind Lab at Johns Hopkins and the NeuroArts Blueprint Initiative, she has helped bridge the gap between scientific research and real-world practice in healthcare, education, and community life.
In this episode, Susan reflects on the winding path that led her into this emerging field and explains what the latest research reveals about the profound impact of arts engagement on human wellbeing. She also explores how arts organizations can better communicate their value, why community-centered approaches matter, and what it will take to make neuroaesthetics a mainstream part of public policy in the years ahead.
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LINKS:
Your Brain on Art: https://www.yourbrainonart.com/
International Arts + Mind Lab at Johns Hopkins: https://www.artsandmindlab.org/
NeuroArts Blueprint Initiative: https://neuroartsblueprint.org/
Neuroarts Resource Center: https://www.neuroartsresourcecenter.com/home
Jacob Jonas consistently questions who dance is for, where it belongs, and how it can be sustained.
From his early days as a street performer on Venice Beach to founding his own company at just 21, his work reflects a conviction that art must evolve alongside audiences. That perspective has shaped his drive to build new models for the field just as much as it has informed his creative practice.
In this episode, Jacob discusses expanding access to dance beyond traditional ticketed spaces, and bringing movement to the screen through his global platform Films.Dance. He also reflects on the gaps he sees across the dance ecosystem—from outdated funding models to legacy approaches to marketing—where emerging leaders have opportunities to rethink the future of the field.
Giorgia Lupi has built a career at the intersection of design, storytelling, and information, treating data not as cold fact but as something deeply human.
From organizing buttons in her grandmother's tailor shop in Italy to becoming a partner at Pentagram, her work consistently challenges the idea that analysis and artistry exist in separate worlds.
In this episode, Giorgia reflects on her path from architecture to information design, and unpacks her philosophy of data humanism: an approach that embraces subjectivity, emotion, and storytelling as essential to how we understand data. She also talks about her work in branding, including Capacity's recent rebrand, and what it means to design in a world increasingly shaped by AI.
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LINKS
Giorgia Lupi: https://giorgialupi.com/
Pentagram: https://www.pentagram.com/
Letterform Online Archive: https://oa.letterformarchive.org/
What's the root of the audience growth problem? Relevance. Few people understand that better than Ruth Hartt.
Ruth has built a career at the intersection of performance and business innovation, moving from a 17-year career as a professional opera singer to advising cultural organizations on how to rethink audience engagement. Drawing on her work at the Clayton Christensen Institute and her deep grounding in the arts, Ruth challenges long-held assumptions about how and why people connect with cultural experiences.
In this episode, Ruth unpacks the limitations of traditional, product-centered marketing and makes the case for a more human, need-based approach. Along the way, she reflects on her own journey from the stage to strategy, and what it means to build a more responsive, relevant future for the arts.
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LINKS:
Cindr: https://cindr.co/
Cindr Webinar: https://cindr.co/webinar
Culture for Hire: https://www.cultureforhire.com/
Christensen Institute: https://www.christenseninstitute.org/
Libraries are often thought of as quiet repositories. But at their best, they are living, evolving spaces where culture is preserved, interpreted, and reimagined.
Brent Reidy serves as the Andrew W. Mellon Director of the Research Libraries at The New York Public Library—one of the most expansive and dynamic cultural collections in the world. With a career that spans musicology, consulting with arts institutions, and nearly a decade at NYPL, Brent brings a unique perspective on how libraries function not just as archives, but as active participants in the cultural ecosystem.
In this episode, Brent reflects on what it takes to engage new audiences; how digitization efforts intersect with access and institutional mission; and how preserving the past can help shape a more inclusive and imaginative future for the arts.
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LINKS:
The New York Public Library: https://www.nypl.org/
The New York Public Library for the Performing Arts: https://www.nypl.org/locations/lpa
StoryCorps Archive: https://archive.storycorps.org/
The best leaders build conditions for others to shine.
Derek A. Johnson, Chief Marketing Officer of Seattle Symphony and Benaroya Hall, has built his leadership philosophy around this very idea. Derek brings a thoughtful, people-centered approach to navigating the complexities of today's arts landscape, drawing on years of experience across major cultural institutions like the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra and the Kennedy Center.
In this episode, Derek reflects on the power of servant leadership and how trust becomes the foundation for both strong teams and bold ideas. He also shares what it means to step into a senior leadership role at a pivotal moment for Seattle Symphony, and how he hopes orchestra marketing will evolve in the years ahead.
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LINKS:
Seattle Symphony: https://www.seattlesymphony.org/
Benaroya Hall: https://www.seattlesymphony.org/benaroyahall
Merriam-Webster: https://www.merriam-webster.com/
The beauty of theater isn't just what happens on stage. It's the community that forms around it. And increasingly, that community is being built online.
Ashley Hufford is part of a growing group of creators leading that shift. A constant presence across New York's theater scene and on social media, she has built an audience of more than 100,000 followers who turn to her not for theater criticism, but for an invitation to try something new. What began as a pandemic-era hobby of posting about shows has grown into a kind of cultural bridge, connecting productions with new and younger audiences.
In this episode, Ashley reflects on her path from sports media to political storytelling to theater influencing; what she's learned about sharing stories that resonate; the evolving role of influencers in the theater ecosystem; and how the arts industry can rethink accessibility and audience-building for the future.
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LINKS:
Ashley Huffed: https://www.ashleyhufford.com/
The New York Public Library: https://www.nypl.org/
The New York Public Library for the Performing Arts: https://www.nypl.org/locations/lpa
Music has the power to move a room. For composer Carlos Simon, that effect was first felt in church, where music was both a creative act and a shared experience.
Raised in a family steeped in ministry and musical tradition, Carlos grew up surrounded by gospel, jazz, and the spontaneity of worship. From playing organ by ear during Sunday services to his later work with orchestras, film, and opera, he has built a compositional voice that blurs boundaries: bridging sacred and secular, improvisation and form, tradition and innovation.
In this episode, Carlos traces his path to becoming one of today's most sought-after composers and the first-ever Composer Chair for the Boston Symphony Orchestra. Along the way, he offers insight into the deeply collaborative nature of his work and frames musical composition as an act of service.
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LINKS:
Carlos Simon: https://www.carlossimonmusic.com/
brea(d)th: https://www.carlossimonmusic.com/album/brea-d-th
Monuments: A Suite for DC: https://www.kennedy-center.org/whats-on/festivals-series/250-years-of-us/sounds-of-us/monuments/
The Blacknificent 7: https://www.instagram.com/blacknificentseven/
Sara Villagio believes some of the most important leadership lessons begin with listening.
Early in her tenure at Carnegie Hall, she made a point of meeting one-on-one with colleagues across the organization, setting the tone for a leadership style grounded in curiosity, collaboration, and learning from the people around you.
Now Chief Marketing Officer of the historic New York institution, Sara reflects on the moments and mentors that shaped her path from young musician to arts executive, and how she guides a cross-functional team of more than 60 people.
She also reflects on a challenge facing many arts organizations: the temptation to assume we know what audiences want. Instead, she argues for a different mindset—one rooted in experimentation and paying close attention to what audiences actually show us.
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LINKS
Carnegie Hall: https://www.carnegiehall.org/
Insight Timer: https://insighttimer.com/
A long history is a gift for any cultural institution, but it also invites a constant balancing act. How do you honor tradition while continuing to evolve for the future?
Pamela Tatge has spent the past decade exploring that question as Executive and Artistic Director of Jacob's Pillow, one of the world's most renowned dance institutions. Under her leadership, the Pillow has expanded from a seasonal festival into a year-round cultural hub, embraced a collaborative curatorial model, and explored how new technologies can broaden how dance is experienced and shared.
As Pamela marks her tenth year leading the Pillow, she reflects on guiding the celebrated institution through moments of upheaval; the growing role of technology in the arts; and the leadership lessons she's gained in her tenure.
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LINKS:
Jacob's Pillow: https://www.jacobspillow.org/
Jacob's Pillow Dance Interactive: https://danceinteractive.jacobspillow.org/
Wesleyan Center for the Arts: https://www.wesleyan.edu/cfa/
Before audiences fall in love with a story, they fall into a world—one shaped by the unseen artistry that turns empty space into something alive.
Set and production designer Paul Tate dePoo III has built a career shaping the physical environments that hold our favorite stories. From intimate stages to large-scale productions, his work lives at the intersection of architecture, storytelling, and psychology, where space itself becomes a character.
In this episode, Paul reflects on how ideas move from sketch to stage, the collaborative nature of his work, and the responsibility designers carry in shaping how audiences experience a narrative.
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LINKS:
Tate Design Group: https://www.pauldepoo.com/
The New York Public Library for the Performing Arts: https://www.nypl.org/locations/lpa
The New York Public Library Photography Collection: https://www.nypl.org/locations/schwarzman/wallach-division/photography-collection
Before a performance is polished, premiered, or reviewed, it exists in a more vulnerable state. What happens when you invite audiences into that space?
As Executive Director of Works & Process, Duke Dang leads an organization built around that idea. By welcoming audiences into the rehearsal room—where new work is tested and shaped—Works & Process transforms performance from a finished product into a shared journey.
Under Duke's leadership, the organization has grown in scale and influence, setting the standard for how institutions can nurture artists at pivotal moments in their development. In this episode, Duke reflects on building sustainable pathways for artists across disciplines, creating space for artistic risk, and deepening audience investment in new work.
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LINKS:
Works & Process: https://www.worksandprocess.org/
CATS: The Jellicle Ball: https://catsthejellicleball.com/
The New York Public Library for the Performing Arts: https://www.nypl.org/locations/lpa
Great theater starts by creating trusted conditions for talent and creativity to thrive.
Cody Renard Richard is a Tony Award-winning producer and stage manager whose career spans Broadway, television, opera, and even Cirque du Soleil. Along the way, his backstage leadership has shaped acclaimed productions like the 2025 revival of Ragtime and this spring's CATS: The Jellicle Ball.
In this episode, Cody talks about what it really means to lead from behind the scenes, and why stage management is such a powerful training ground for leadership. He reflects on his path through the industry, how he's navigated power and visibility in a field that doesn't always make room for everyone, and what it looks like to advocate for artists and audiences without burning out or losing yourself in the process.
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LINKS:
Cody Renard Richard: https://www.codyrenard.com/
Ragtime at Lincoln Center: https://www.lct.org/shows/ragtime/
CATS: The Jellicle Ball: https://catsthejellicleball.com/
RISE Theatre Directory: https://risetheatre.org/
Aidan Connolly knows that institutional growth isn't just a matter of square footage. It's a test of values.
As Executive Director of Irish Arts Center in New York City, Aidan is leading the organization through a major expansion and transformation—one that requires not only bold vision, but the discipline to protect what made the institution matter in the first place.
In this episode, Aidan reflects on what it takes to lead values-driven change, how his background in politics shaped his approach to advocacy and stakeholder management, and how arts organizations can become not just presenters of culture, but civic homes for artists and audiences alike.
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LINKS:
Irish Arts Center: https://irishartscenter.org/
WorkLife with Adam Grant: https://adamgrant.net/podcasts/work-life/
The New York Public Library: https://www.nypl.org/
The New York Public Library for the Performing Arts: https://www.nypl.org/locations/lpa
Risk is usually something leaders are told to minimize. But for Sammi Cannold, it's essential to success.
As an award-winning director across Broadway, film, and television, Sammi has built her career on ambitious projects—like staging Violet on a moving bus and reimagining Ragtime on Ellis Island. What stands out isn't just the boldness of the choices, but the intention behind them: using place and performance to help audiences experience even the most familiar stories in new ways.
In this episode, Sammi shares how she found her voice as a young woman in a male-dominated field; how she brings new perspective to beloved works while still honoring their legacy; and what it means to be an "actor's director" whether she's working on stage or the silver screen. Plus, she shares why advocacy in entertainment doesn't always have to feel like eating your vegetables, and breaks down the false dichotomy between mission-driven and commercial work.
LINKS:
Sammi Cannold: https://www.sammicannold.com/
The Agnes Index: https://www.instagram.com/theagnesindex/?hl=en
Broadway Briefing: https://broadwaybriefing.com/
If you could spend a year visiting arts organizations around the world, what patterns would start to emerge—and which assumptions would fall apart?
Last year, Andrew Recinos, President & CEO of Tessitura, embarked on a global listening tour that took him inside cultural institutions across ten countries. Despite vast differences in geography, scale, and discipline, he heard strikingly similar themes—of reconstruction, resilience, and the challenge of evolving without losing core purpose.
In this episode, Andrew explores what a global vantage point reveals about the state of the field, why innovation requires "eating good ideas," and how technology can act as a co-intelligence that deepens, rather than diminishes, meaningful human connection.
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LINKS
Tessitura: https://www.tessitura.com/
Arts Journal: https://www.artsjournal.com/
TLDRAI: https://tldrai.com/
As of May 1, 2025, CI to Eye is now Arts Unscripted. This name change reflects Capacity's broader rebrand, but the heart of the show remains the same: candid, thoughtful conversations with artists, leaders, and creative thinkers about the future of our industry.
Join host Monica Holt as she reflects on the moments that defined the Fall 2025 season, and hear cultural leaders remind us why connection, creativity, and collaboration are more important than ever.
Aly Maier Lokuta knows that art and science aren't opposing disciplines. They're a shared language for strengthening public wellbeing.
Her career has long bridged these worlds, from co-founding Rutgers' Arts and Health Research Lab to leading the largest public mural initiative since the WPA era during her time with NYC Health + Hospitals. Now, as AVP of Arts and Well-Being at the New Jersey Performing Arts Center, she's proving what many leaders in the field are only beginning to articulate: that cultural institutions can be powerful drivers of community health.
In this episode, Aly shares real-world examples of arts-in-health programs and actionable advice for organizations looking to launch or grow their own initiatives.
LINKS:
Aly's art and consulting work: www.alysonmaier.com
Aly's Arts in Health blog: www.alymaier.substack.com
NJPAC Arts & Well-Being: www.njpac.org/well
Jameel Arts and Health Lab: https://www.jameelartshealthlab.org/
National Organization for Arts in Health: https://thenoah.org/
NYC Health + Hospitals Arts in Medicine Program: https://www.nychealthandhospitals.org/artsinmedicine/
UF Center for Arts in Medicine: https://arts.ufl.edu/programs-schools/center-for-arts-in-medicine/
For Ming Min Hui, there's no single "right" path to arts leadership—only the one you build through curiosity, courage, and a willingness to evolve.
Her career began far from the stage, in finance and corporate strategy on Wall Street. Today, as Executive Director of Boston Ballet, she sees that wide-ranging experience not as a detour but as the engine behind her leadership.
In this episode, Ming reflects on the value of expansive career paths, the power of collaborative problem-solving, and how she uses her business acumen to deepen the relevance of a 400-year-old art form in Boston and beyond.
LINKS:
Boston Ballet - https://www.bostonballet.org/
NBC Boston | Citydance 30 Documentary - https://www.nbcboston.com/entertainment/entertainment-news/watch-the-boston-ballet-citydance-30-years-of-movement-documentary-saturday/2813042/
For Alex Sarian, relevance isn't a buzzword. It's a mandate for the future of the arts.
As President and CEO of the Werklund Centre in Calgary, he's leading the largest cultural infrastructure project in Canadian history, a transformation that will soon make the organization the country's largest performing arts campus. But Alex is quick to point out that bricks and mortar aren't the real story. The deeper shift is philosophical: a move away from mission statements as fixed declarations and toward a practice of asking, "What does the world need right now that we are uniquely positioned to do?"
In this episode, Alex reflects on the evolution underway at the Werklund Centre and the ideas behind his best-selling book The Audacity of Relevance. He offers a roadmap for leaders ready to create with their community—not for them—and makes a compelling case for why relevance is the most powerful strategy we have for building a sustainable, future-facing cultural sector.
LINKS
Werklund Centre: https://werklundcentre.ca/
The Audacity of Relevance: https://www.alexsarian.com/book
The future of arts and culture depends on leaders who can innovate, adapt, and inspire—and Deborah Rutter has been doing it at the highest levels. With five decades of experience leading premier cultural institutions across the United States, she knows what it takes to drive meaningful change while keeping artists and audiences at the center.
In this live episode from Boot Camp 2025, the former President of the Kennedy Center and current Vice Provost for the Arts at Duke University shares lessons from her career on leading through periods of transformational growth and building the financial and operational resilience needed to sustain our organizations.
It's Boot Camp week! In this special mini episode, Capacity's President Christopher Williams joins host Monica Holt to pull back the curtain on Boot Camp, the leading conference for arts and culture professionals. They dive into how this year's program came together, the sessions they're most excited about, and how courage and curiosity are the keys to a stronger sector.
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Shanta Thake sees artistic curation as a practice rooted in curiosity and community connection.
As the Ehrenkranz Chief Artistic Officer at Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts, Shanta is helping redefine what one of the world's most storied institutions can be. Since joining in 2021, she's helped usher in an era of experimentation and access to ensure the arts remain central to New York City's civic life.
In this episode, Shanta reflects on what it means to democratize the programming process, how the arts contribute to community wellbeing, and why leading with curiosity sparks meaningful innovation. She also takes listeners behind the scenes of initiatives like Lincoln Center's West Side Expansion and Summer for the City—efforts rooted in humility, collaboration, and partnership with local communities.
LINKS:
Lincoln Center | A New West Side
For Rachel S. Moore, the arts aren't just a mirror for society. They're a means of shaping it.
As President and CEO of The Music Center in Los Angeles, she oversees one of the largest performing arts centers in North America, stewarding $3 billion in county assets and programming that reaches hundreds of thousands of Angelenos each year. A former professional dancer with American Ballet Theatre (she's also its former CEO and executive director), Rachel brings an artist's discipline to leadership—and a belief that creativity and civic life are deeply intertwined.
In this episode, Rachel shares what ballet has taught her about resilience and collaboration, how The Music Center works to stay accountable to its community, and why building relevance doesn't just sustain our organizations, but strengthens democracy itself.
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Reimagining a centuries-old art form takes more than talent; it takes courage, curiosity, and a deep belief that tradition can evolve. Few embody that spirit like Babatunde Akinboboye.
A classically trained baritone and viral "hip hopera" artist, Babatunde is redefining what opera can sound like—and who it's for. His mashups of rap and arias have captivated millions online, and garnered attention from The Ellen Show, America's Got Talent and TIME Magazine. He's now channeling that distinctive style into his upcoming debut album.
In this episode, Babatunde shares how he discovered opera by chance, what it took to find his artistic voice in a space that didn't always reflect him, and how blending genres can make opera feel newly accessible. He also offers insight into building genuine audience connections and broadening ideas of what great music can be.
LINKS:
TIME Magazine | Hero Masterfully Creates His Own Hip-Hopera While Driving
Can a performing arts center change the identity of a city? Tom Gabbard has spent more than two decades proving it can as CEO of Blumenthal Arts in Charlotte, NC.
Under his leadership, Blumenthal has grown from a regional performing arts center into a national force. Charlotte now ranks among North America's Top 10 markets for touring Broadway shows, and the organization also fosters experimental projects in Blume Studios, a 44,000-square-foot "arts R&D lab" that pushes beyond traditional stages.
In this episode, Tom reflects on how he balances commercial success with cultural mission, programs with local artists and community needs in mind, and pilots immersive experiences that redefine what arts participation can look like.
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How do you bring audiences along as you expand their definition of an art form? That's the question Jane Raleigh has grappled with throughout her career.
As the former Director of Dance Programming at the Kennedy Center, she spent more than a decade transforming the institution's siloed approach to dance into a continuum that celebrates both classical works and contemporary voices. Now, as the founder of DC Dance Network, she's creating new ways for artists and audiences to engage.
In this episode, Jane shares her approach to stretching audiences' comfort zones without losing their engagement, building pathways that link programming with community impact, and shaping a more connected, resilient dance ecosystem.
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Audiences don't just want to watch theater; they want to step inside it. Few people understand that better than casting director Kate Lumpkin.
Kate has become a go-to voice in immersive performance, shaping productions that dissolve the line between stage and audience. Her latest project? Masquerade NYC: an immersive Phantom of the Opera revival now running Off Broadway.
For Kate, immersive work isn't a trend. It's a response to what audiences are hungry for: connection, participation, and community. Her vision flips the question from "How do we fill the seats?" to "How do we open the doors wider?"
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Arts and culture don't thrive in isolation. They thrive when artists, institutions, and policymakers work in concert. Michael J. Bobbitt, Executive Director of Mass Cultural Council, is making that bridge his life's work, showing how government and the arts can partner to create healthier, stronger, more sustainable communities.
From his early days as a performer and choreographer to his current role shaping statewide cultural policy, Michael has witnessed both the joys and the shortcomings of the arts sector. In this episode, he argues that the sector's future depends on how boldly we organize, build cross-sector partnerships, and demand our place at the table.
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WBUR | Mass. starts country's first arts prescription program for physical and behavioral health
How do you invite new audiences into the symphony in a way that feels fresh, joyful, and unforgettable? Macy Schmidt has been asking that question with every project she takes on. As the founder of The Sinfonietta and CEO of Overture Global Entertainment, she's not just producing concerts—she's designing live experiences that feel transformative for new audiences.
In this episode, Macy reflects on the early influences that shaped her approach to orchestration, the audience-first philosophy that guides her work, and how she's scaling women-led orchestras around the world. She also shares how one bold pitch to Mattel grew into Barbie the Movie in Concert, and reveals the creative decisions that made the project a global phenomenon.
For arts and culture leaders, Macy's insights show what's possible when you shift from guarding traditions to designing moments that stay with people long after the final note.
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Few leaders expect their first months on the job to coincide with a fight for the future of the arts in America. For Erin Harkey, that became the reality when she stepped in as CEO of Americans for the Arts earlier this year—just as the federal government proposed eliminating national arts funding.
In this episode, Erin reflects on her career journey, from shaping cultural policy in Chicago to stepping into one of the most prominent arts leadership roles in the country. She shares why public funding is uniquely powerful, how communities can mobilize in times of uncertainty, and why joy itself can be a form of resistance. Along the way, she offers practical advice for arts administrators, artists, and advocates alike: from making your voice heard with elected officials to finding ways to sustain yourself in the work.
LINKS:
National Endowment for the Arts | The Big Picture
Americans for the Arts | Americans Speak Out About the Arts
Americans for the Arts | Arts Impact Explorer
Americans for the Arts | Advocacy Toolkit For Individuals and Organizations
What turns a live event into a cultural moment people never forget? David Jammy has some answers. As Executive Producer at Done+Dusted, he's helped shape global broadcasts from the Emmys and Kennedy Center Honors to the Global Citizen Festival and the Mark Twain Prize.
In this conversation, David traces his path from student activist in apartheid-era South Africa to producing events that capture history as it happens. He shares his storytelling philosophy, the challenge of turning fleeting moments into lasting television, and the behind-the-scenes story of the 2025 Mark Twain Prize honoring Conan O'Brien—a night that doubled as both a tribute and an act of resistance.
It's a reminder that live events aren't just entertainment. They can be culture's way of recording history in real time.
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Kelly Clarkson's Cautionary Christmas Music Tale (2013) PBS | Jon Stewart Mark Twain Prize Acceptance Speech Netflix | Conan O'Brien: The Kennedy Center Mark Twain Prize for American Humor Variety | How Done+Dusted Found the Right Tone for Conan O'Brien's Kennedy Center Mark Twain Prize, as Both a Celebration and a Wake: 'It Was So Cathartic'AI is changing how we work. What does that mean for arts and culture? Jen Taylor, Capacity Interactive's Director of AI Strategy and Integration, shares what her research with over 100 arts leaders and administrators reveals about where the field really stands with AI: a mix of curiosity, caution, and untapped opportunity.
In this episode, Jen and Monica unpack how AI can save time for under-resourced teams, how organizations can build policies that align with their missions, and why the technology should amplify—not replace—human creativity. This episode is your guide to embracing AI without losing sight of what makes the arts human.
LINKS:
Capacity Interactive | AI Services and The State of the Arts in 2025 Report
Nonprofit Quarterly | How Nonprofits Can Create Ethical AI Policies
Reuters | ChatGPT sets record for fastest-growing user base
The Marketing AI Institute | 2024 State of Marketing AI Report
What happens when a cultural district leads a city's revival? As President and CEO of Pittsburgh Cultural Trust, Kendra Whitlock Ingram is leading the cultural district through a new era of civic transformation—building public spaces, breaking down barriers to access, and reimagining what a cultural district can be.
In this episode, Kendra and Monica Holt explore what it takes to lead complex institutions, foster inclusive programming, and make the arts central to a city's future—not just its history.
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Pittsburgh Magazine | Pittsburgh Cultural Trust Unveils Plans for the New 'Arts Landing' Downtown
Can legacy arts institutions innovate like start-ups? Clive Chang thinks so. As President and CEO of YoungArts, he's reimagining how a 40-year-old organization can support today's multi-disciplinary artists—by questioning everything, embracing experimentation, and making space for creative risk.
In this conversation, Clive and host Monica Holt unpack how to disrupt old habits, build a culture of curiosity, and keep tradition from becoming inertia.
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A bold new chapter. A brilliant new voice. CI's President Christopher Williams kicks off a new season of CI to Eye by welcoming Monica Holt, this season's host and Senior Advisor to Capacity Interactive. Monica reflects on her 16-year journey at the Kennedy Center, the passion that's driven her work, and all things Evita—plus what to expect from upcoming episodes.
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New York Times | 'Just in Time' Review: Jonathan Groff Channels Bobby Darin
NPR | This summer's most talked-about performance on London's West End isn't onstage
Forbes | Trump Takes Over Kennedy Center In War On 'Woke' Programming—Here's What To Know
Marketing and development teams in arts and cultural organizations work toward the same goals: generating revenue, deepening relationships, and advancing the mission. But too often, they're doing that work in silos—on separate timelines, using different tools, and speaking to the same audiences in different ways. The result? Missed opportunities and diminished impact.
In this episode, Cincinnati Shakespeare Company's Director of Marketing, Jeanna Vella, and Director of Development, Sara Clark, share what happens when we break down silos and create true cross-departmental partnerships. They reveal the tools and tactics that keep their teams aligned, the hurdles they've worked through, and what any organization can do to build stronger alignment between marketing and development.
CI to Eye Interview (time) - Dan sits down with Cincinnati Shakespeare Company to discuss their experience breaking down silos and creating true cross-departmental partnerships.
CI-lebrity Sightings (time) - Dan shares his favorite stories of CI clients in the news. This episode spotlights Baltimore Symphony Orchestra, Cincinnati Art Museum, and Atlanta Ballet.
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Cincinnati Shakespeare Company
The Violin Channel | Baltimore Symphony Receives $5m Gift Towards Family and Educational Programming
WLWT News | Cincinnati Art Museum planning expansion to make Art Climb more accessible
TODAY | 100-year-old ballet instructor shares his 3 simple tips for a long, healthy life
Recent political developments in the U.S.—from executive orders to proposed agency closures and evolving federal funding guidelines—have placed cultural organizations at the center of a national conversation about how institutions uphold their values and navigate their role in a rapidly changing America.
In this episode, Brett Egan of the DeVos Institute of Arts and Nonprofit Management breaks down what's happening now, what's at stake, and where cultural organizations might find unexpected opportunity in the turbulence.
CI to Eye with Brett Egan (1:30) -- CI's President (Interim) Christopher Williams sits down with Brett Egan, President of the DeVos Institute of Arts and Nonprofit Management. They discuss how to prepare for threats to the arts and cultural industry, and rethink what resilience means moving forward.
CI-lebrity Sightings (31:55) -- Dan Titmuss shares his favorite stories about CI clients in the news. This month's episode spotlights The Juilliard School, Louisville Orchestra, and San Diego Theatres.
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DeVos Institute of Arts and Nonprofit Management
Capacity Interactive | The Arts and Culture Sector is Facing a Funding Squeeze in 2025
New York Times | Juilliard Plans $550 Million Drive to Go Tuition Free
Sentinel News | Louisville Orchestra bring classical music to all corners of Kentucky
Broadway World | San Diego Civic Theatre Will Get $7.5 Million Renovation
Great experiences don't happen by accident—they're designed with intention. From the first click on a website to the moment a visitor steps through your door to engagement after they leave, every interaction shapes how people feel about an organization. So what does it take to create a truly exceptional guest experience?
Emily O'Hara, Senior Director of Guest Experience at the Detroit Zoological Society, thinks about this every day. In this episode, she shares how the Detroit Zoo fosters personal connections and creates a welcoming, engaging environment for every guest. We explore practical strategies for delivering wildly good experiences that turn visitors into raving (and returning) fans.
CI to Eye with Emily O'Hara (1:30) – Dan and Emily discuss the growing importance of hospitality in arts and culture, making our venues more accessible with thoughtful accommodations, and the magic of penguin exhibits.
CI-lebrity Sightings (41:00) – Dan shares his favorite stories of CI clients in the news. This episode's roundup includes ArtsEmerson, Boston Ballet, The Children's Theater of Cincinnati, The Huntington Theatre, and San Francisco Symphony.
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WBUR | Free tickets drop for Boston kids as performance arts venues join city program
Broadway World | The Children's Theatre of Cincinnati Receives $2 Million Anonymous Challenge Gift
As we face growing political tensions in the U.S. and unprecedented government interference in arts and culture programming, sustaining our commitments to diversity, equity, inclusion, belonging, and accessibility (DEIBA) is more critical than ever. Recent executive actions have limited resources for our industry and further silenced historically excluded voices in our field. As these challenges mount, we must find new ways to advocate, collaborate, and ensure our work remains inclusive.
This episode revisits a powerful conversation with Dr. Evelyn Carter from June 2023 about what it takes to uphold DEIBA commitments when the going gets tough. Dr. Carter shares heartening advice and actionable strategies for arts and cultural administrators to meet this moment with purpose and resilience.
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CI to Eye Interview (3:00) - Dan sits down with social psychologist Dr. Evelyn Carter to discuss the unique DEIBA challenges and opportunities we face in the arts and entertainment industry. Dr. Carter shares expert tips for living our values, creating welcoming environments, and addressing implicit bias in the workplace and beyond.
CI-lebrity Sightings (54:10) - Dan recaps his favorite stories of CI clients in the news. This month's newsmakers include Detroit Symphony Orchestra, NYU Skirball, Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, Musical Instrument Museum, Los Angles Philharmonic, San Francisco Symphony, and Pittsburgh Symphony.
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NPR | 'Chilling effect': Arts organizations react to end of DEI initiatives from fed agency
CBS News | How Trump is reshaping the Kennedy Center, moving away from "woke culture"
CI to Eye | Sustaining DEIBA Commitments
WHYY | From a childhood dream to leading orchestras: The power of music education
New York Times | 'How Did I Get Here?' 7 Days in the Life of a Busy Arts Programmer
USA Today | 10 best music museums in the US that will rock your world
In this episode, we revisit some of the most powerful insights from last year's guests to inspire and guide the year ahead. This isn't just a look back—it's a call to action for our industry. Listen as fourteen cultural leaders remind us why the arts matter and how we can continue to push boundaries, build connections, and lead with purpose.
The end of the year is a busy time for arts administrators, packed with holiday campaigns and fundraising deadlines. With so much happening, it's easy to lose sight of the bigger picture. So today we're taking a moment to pause, reflect, and reconnect with our "why."
In this episode, we revisit a popular Boot Camp 2024 conversation with CI President Priya Iyer Doshi and Terri Freeman, President of The Lewis Museum, about purpose-driven leadership and the resilience of our industry. Then, we ask arts administrators to reflect on their year and what's fueling their passion in 2025. It will leave you feeling grounded, inspired, and ready to tackle what's ahead.
CI to Eye with Terri Freeman (1:30) - Live from Boot Camp 2024, CI President Priya Iyer Doshi sits down with Terri Freeman, President of The Lewis Museum. Together they discuss purpose-driven leadership, resilience, and navigating uncertainty with clarity. It's a timely conversation and a powerful reminder of the importance of our work.
Ask The Industry (59:30) - Dan takes his microphone to the Boot Camp floor to ask arts administrators about their year in review. They share their excitements, challenges, and what's keeping them inspired as we roll into 2025. Listen for familiar voices from Acadiana Center for the Arts, ArtOps, ArtsWave, Ballet BC, Carnegie Hall, Chanhassen Dinner Theatres, Charleston Gaillard Center, Cincinnati Arts Association, Hopkins Center for the Arts, Houston Ballet, Huntington Theatre Company, Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts, Madison Symphony Orchestra, New York Theatre Workshop, Paper Mill Playhouse, Proctors Collaborative, Signature Theatre, Trinity Rep, University Musical Society, YoungArts, and ZACH Theatre.
In today's post-pandemic world, keeping our audiences engaged and organizations financially healthy can feel like an uphill battle. Changing audience behaviors have disrupted traditional marketing strategies, and high churn rates among first-time visitors, subscribers, and donors are slowing revenue growth. But what if there's a way forward that breaks from the traditional playbook?
In this episode, CI President Priya Iyer Doshi sits down with industry leader Aubrey Bergauer to discuss her new book, Run It Like A Business. Aubrey draws inspiration from outside the arts to rethink how organizations can boost relevance, drive revenue, and better serve our communities. Discover how adapting for-profit strategies for non-profit goals can help move your organization forward.
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CI to Eye with Aubrey Bergauer (1:30) - CI President Priya Iyer Doshi sits down with Run It Like A Business author Aubrey Bergauer to discuss some of the book's key ideas that can make a big difference in our organizations.
CI-lebrity Sightings (44:25) - Dan shares his favorite stories about CI clients in the news.
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Aubrey Bergauer | Run It Like A Business Book Bonuses
CI to Eye | Bucking Trends with Disciplined Communication
Washington Post | The 20 best art museums in America
Washington Post | The best small art museums in America
Boston Globe | The Top 100 Women-Led Businesses in Massachusetts in 2024
Oregon Arts Watch | City announces $4 million+ in arts grants
The Guardian | Small step or a giant leap? What AI means for the dance world
Art Net | Hey Besties, Gen Z Marketing Scripts Have Infiltrated Museums Around the World
The world is full of injustice and inequity, and most arts organizations have the best of intentions to be responsive in thoughtful and meaningful ways. But it can be challenging–boards and long-time patrons can push back on programming and messaging that feels unfamiliar to them, and change can feel unbearably slow when your organization lacks the necessary connections or resources within its larger community.
In this episode, we'll share never-before-aired insights on how to hold your organization accountable to its goals around representation, access, and equity, from a conversation recorded earlier this year between CI's VP, Managing Director Christopher Williams and Canton Symphony Orchestra's Rachel Hagemeier. Rachel discusses the Symphony's podcast, Orchestrating Change, and the learnings and organizational shifts that have come out of those interviews, as well as the Symphony's evolving model for community connection.
CI to Eye Interview (1:30) - CI's Christopher Williams sits down with the Canton Symphony Orchestra's Rachel Hagemeier to help listeners understand how to hold their organizations accountable to their mission and goals around representation, access, and equity.
CI-Lebrity Sightings (16:10) - Dan shares his favorite news stories about CI clients.
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Institute for Composer Diversity | 2023 Orchestra Repertoire Report
Know Your Own Bone | Trust Trends for Cultural Entities at Mid-Year 2024
Know Your Own Bone | The Causes Likely Visitors Care About Most as We Enter the Election Cycle
Gothamist | After 19 years, a docent at the Rubin Museum says goodbye to his 'home away from home'
BroadwayWorld | Steppenwolf, Goodman Theatre, and More Take Home Equity Jeff Awards
A solid web analytics strategy gives the insight you need to better understand your audiences, optimize your campaigns, and ultimately, drive more ticket sales or donations. But for many arts marketers, justifying a greater investment of time and money in web analytics can feel like an uphill battle—especially when making the case to senior leaders who are farther removed from the digital weeds.
In this episode, we'll help you bridge the gap between the technical side of GA4 and the high-level goals that matter to your organization's decision-makers. With a few key tips, you'll be able to show your boss and board members that investing in analytics is not only worthwhile, but actually critical for long-term success.
CI to Eye Interview (2:30) - Dan sits down with Yosaif Cohain, CI's VP of Analytics, to help listeners bridge the gap between the technical side of analytics and the high-level goals that matter to arts organizations' decision-makers.
CI-lebrity Sightings (23:10) - Dan shares his favorite news stories about CI clients.
Governor Ron DeSantis' recent veto of over $30 million in arts and culture funding is more than just a financial blow to Florida arts organizations—it undermines the social and economic contributions our industry provides. How can we clearly communicate the vital role our organizations play to stakeholders and policymakers?
In this episode, CI's VP, Managing Director Christopher Williams speaks with Chris Brown, Executive Director of Orlando Family Stage, about how advocates can make a stronger case for arts funding by highlighting the industry's vital role in boosting local economies, fostering community well-being, and enriching society.
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NPR | Hundreds of Florida arts groups scramble for funding after DeSantis vetoes grants
Orlando Sentinel | Budget Cuts Spotlight The Vital Role of Arts in Florida
Orlando Family Stage | Press Release: Budget cuts spotlight the vital role of arts in Florida
New York Times | A Bargain at the Opera: Philadelphia Offers All Seats for as Low as $11
Social media is more than just a content dumping ground. It's where your organization makes its first impression on potential audiences and fosters relationships with existing fans. Press refresh on your paid and organic social strategies to tap new audiences, drive ticket sales, and cultivate brand loyalty in the season ahead.
Digital Download (2:10) - Dan sits down with CI Consultant Natalie Martinez to talk about advertising on TikTok: when it makes sense, how to get started, and the kind of results you can expect to see.
CI to Eye with Rachel Karten (17:20) - Dan catches up with Rachel Karten, a social media consultant and author of the popular newsletter Link In Bio. They discuss the evolving role of social media in the digital marketing landscape, and what most arts and culture organizations get wrong about organic content.
CI-lebrity Sightings (37:40) - Dan runs through our favorite stories about CI clients in the news.
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TikTok | Successfully Advertise on the World's Hottest Content Platform
Search Engine Land: 51% of Gen Z women prefer TikTok, not Google, for search
TikTok | Advertising Policies About Advertising to People Under the Age of 18
Taproot News | How arts organizations are working to attract younger audiences
Observer | Nicholas Baume On the Power of Public Art and What It's Accomplishing in New York
New City Stage | Let There Be Luminance: How Lighting Designers Show Us the Show
A new cohort of inspiring and determined individuals has moved into leadership positions at cultural organizations—and they're challenging traditional notions about what arts management should look like.
In this episode, CI's VP, Managing Director Christopher Williams sits down with three young leaders to discuss generational shifts in leadership styles, navigating the complexities of people management, and the changes they hope to see in their respective arts communities and the industry at large.
2:20 - Canton Symphony Orchestra's Rachel Hagemeier reflects on her promotion to CEO at just 25 years old. She shares hard-won lessons in people management, self-advocacy, and listening to your gut.
21:05 - Monica Holt chats about her career advancement at the Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, the vulnerability of leadership, and the power of learning new skills.
41:40 - CI's Priya Iyer Doshi pulls back the curtain on what it's like to be a young president. She talks about bringing your authentic self to work, managing people with more years of experience, and listening deeply to your colleagues.
1:02:30 - CI's Dan Titmuss shares his favorite stories about clients in the news.
What sets successful diversity, equity, inclusion, belonging, and access (DEIBA) initiatives apart? It's not about checking boxes; it's about prioritizing authenticity and thoughtfulness.
Some of the most impactful DEIBA work in our industry begins with arts organizations fostering genuine community partnerships and engaging audiences in meaningful ways. In this episode, we discuss inspiring examples of how embracing these principles can lead to profound, positive changes in our organizations.
Digital Download (2:15) - Dan sits down with Consultant Selia Aponte to talk about reaching new audiences with bilingual ads: how to use them, when they work best, and how to ensure a smooth audience journey for ESL attendees.
CI to Eye with John Orr (15:15) - CI President Priya Iyer Doshi chats with John Orr, Executive Director of Art-Reach in Philadelphia. They discuss how we can make the arts a more inclusive space for disabled and chronically ill audiences, and ensure the full spectrum of society is served through our programming.
CI-lebrity Sightings (42:00) - Dan highlights some of CI's favorite arts stories in the news.
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New York Times | At Museums, a Revolution Gains Momentum
American Theatre Magazine | They Will Survive: Theatres That Are Beating the Odds
Audience behavior has changed significantly over the past few years, and pre-pandemic benchmarks are all but obsolete. If we want to adjust to the demands of today's market, we need updated markers for success.
Enter: CI's brand-new Cultural Compass study. We pulled from our own bank of campaign data that spans over 150 client organizations to uncover the latest digital marketing benchmarks and emerging trends for our industry. In this episode, lead researcher and Senior Consultant Ali Blount discusses the biggest surprises in her analysis of more than 7,000 digital campaigns, and previews key findings to inform your FY25 media planning.
Audience engagement is critical for attracting and retaining new attendees. But what exactly does it look like in practice?
For Holly Mulcahy, "audience engagement" isn't just a marketing platitude—it's a promise. In this episode, the Wichita Symphony Orchestra's Concertmaster and Partner for Audience Engagement shares what wine-tasting and birdwatching have to do with orchestral music, and why deepening audience relationships now will pay dividends for our organizations in the long run.
Across a variety of artistic genres, we see persistent gender imbalances among the creatives and leaders who make the art possible. That's especially true for dance, where women continue to hold fewer artistic director positions and receive fewer choreographic opportunities than men despite making up a significant majority of the dance workforce overall.
As full-blown data nerds here at CI, we believe you can't change what you don't measure. So we sat down with the team at Dance Data Project® to discuss the latest industry stats and consider how to carve a path forward for gender equity in dance.
Dance Data Project® promotes gender equity in the dance industry through metrics-based analysis. In this interview, they overview their latest research, programming, and advocacy work to showcase and uplift women across the dance industry—from artistic and executive leaders, to lighting designers and commissioned composers.
LINKS:
New York Times | Do Men Still Rule Ballet? Let Us Count the Ways.
Dance Magazine | Over 80% of Ballets Are Still Choreographed By Men
Pointe Magazine | Ballet's Gender Gap—By the Numbers
Data USA | Dancers and Choreographers Workforce
New Scientist | Doctors 'nudged' into prescribing far fewer antibiotics
ADDITIONAL CONVERSATIONS ABOUT EQUITY IN DANCE:
What do we do when "the classics"—those canonical treasures that embody the rich traditions of our genres—start to feel outdated for today's audiences, or even at odds with our missions?
In today's episode, we take a close look at celebrated works from the classical Western canon that include harmful portrayals of non-Western cultures, and hear how one artist is taking action to prune and preserve the art he loves.
Artist and advocate Phil Chan shares how performing arts organizations can approach works from the classical Western canon with enhanced cultural sensitivity and authenticity. He offers tips and real-world examples for updating outdated representations of non-Western cultures while maintaining the integrity of these works.
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Holding the artistic reins of an organization is no easy feat—especially when that organization has been around for generations and has a deep-rooted legacy. As a leader, how do you honor the rich history of your institution while effectively steering it into the future?
As New York City Ballet celebrates its 75th anniversary season, Artistic Director Jonathan Stafford reflects on the Company's continued evolution, how they've adapted to this new digital era, and the unique challenges of leading such a storied cultural entity.
The changing digital landscape might present challenges, but it also presents a great opportunity to reassess and refocus as we head into a new era of digital marketing.
At CI, we pinpointed five key areas that will set arts and cultural institutions up for success in 2024. Catch up on the first two priorities in Part One, then delve into the final three priorities in today's episode. You'll get insights and tips from CI consultants so you can confidently navigate the changing digital landscape, drive results for your organization, and refocus as we head into a new era of digital marketing.
From the rise of AI-driven advertising to the imminent third-party cookie crunch—which developments deserve your valuable time and attention in 2024?
At CI, we pinpointed five key areas that will set arts and cultural institutions up for success in 2024. Join us over the next two episodes as we delve into each area so you can confidently navigate the changing digital landscape, drive results for your organization, and refocus as we head into a new era of digital marketing.
Crank the volume on Part One, and be on the lookout for Part Two in the coming weeks. We'll round out the list of priorities and offer even more tips and insights from CI consultants.
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Happy Black History Month, podcast listeners! Our latest episode coincides with the vibrant celebrations of Black history and shines a spotlight on the incredible contributions of Black and Brown composers, whose musical genius continues to enrich the classical repertoire.
Join us as we journey deep into the world of classical music—how we define it, how we enjoy it, and how we ensure everyone feels welcome and represented in our concert halls. This conversation is just the start of breaking down barriers to attendance and ensuring classical arts organizations connect with audiences for generations to come.
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Loki Karuna (Formerly Known As Garrett McQueen)
Star Tribune | Radio Host Garrett McQueen Agitates for Change While Elevating Black Artistry
New York Times | Pandemic Woes Lead Met Opera to Tap Endowment and Embrace New Work
NPR | Terence Blanchard Makes History At The Metropolitan Opera
CI to Eye is back with a healthy dose of inspiration to help you re-center at the top of the new year.
In 2023, we spoke with remarkable thought leaders both within and beyond the realm of the arts. Guests ranged from executive directors and arts researchers to experts in DEIBA. They all answered the same question: "If you could broadcast one message to executive directors, leadership teams, staff, and boards of thousands of arts organizations, what would it be?"
We call this their "CI to Eye moment," and in this special episode, Dan revisits these key insights to offer encouragement and perspective for the year ahead.
QUICK LINKS
The holidays are upon us, which means strategic planning is seriously heating up. Try as you might to enjoy your hot cocoa in peace, you're already fielding ideas from colleagues about the marketing experiments you should try next season or the digital efforts your team simply needs to add to its list.
Stay cool, arts marketers. We're bringing you a special recording of our panel discussion from Boot Camp 2023 all about knowing when to say yes. And since it's the holiday season, we'll also take a look back at the year with all of you.
Empowered Decisions: Knowing When To Say Yes (1:25) - Sara Villagio from Carnegie Hall moderates a discussion with leaders from the Kennedy Center, the Apollo, and Sesame Workshop about how they innovate digital marketing strategies, inspire their teams, and question how best to use their (limited!) time.
End-of-Year Reflections (1:02:45) - Hear from fellow arts marketers and Boot Camp attendees about their biggest learnings from the past year and what they're most looking forward to in the months ahead.
We're swiftly approaching one of the busiest times of year for arts marketers… and with it, holiday programs, gift campaigns, end-of-year donation pushes, and—to top it all off—strategic planning for next season. If the holiday hustle has you feeling a bit frigid, this episode will warm you up with actionable tips and smart questions to end the calendar year on a high note.
Digital Download (1:40) - Dan catches up with Senior Consultant Jess Isgro to discuss how to get the most out of your holiday gift campaigns, juggle concurrent end-of-year priorities, and implement learnings from the past year as you plan for 2024.
CI to Eye Interview (22:00) - CI President Priya Iyer Doshi sits down with Tara Mohr, a revered leadership expert and best-selling author who shares subtle mindset shifts that can grow your confidence in the workplace. Get ready to kick self-doubt to the curb as you tackle high-stakes strategic conversations for next season.
LINKS:
Capacity Interactive | Ask CI: How Do I Optimize Holiday Gift Campaigns?
Subscription numbers continue to dwindle at arts organizations across the country, begging the question: Is it time to rethink subscription/membership models? Tune in for a transparent conversation with arts marketers who are doing just that, and gather tips for revamping your own offerings to meet audiences' evolving needs.
Digital Download (2:05) - Dan digs into client data with fellow senior consultant Ali Blount to determine where arts buyers search, and whether social platforms like TikTok and Instagram are giving traditional search engines a run for their money.
CI to Eye Interview (11:40) - Sara Villagio, CMO of Carnegie Hall, leads a follow-up discussion with our subscriptions and memberships panelists from Boot Camp 2022. Hear how their season-long experiments fared and what new tactics they're excited to test in the season ahead.
LINKS:
Capacity Interactive | Ask CI: Where Do Arts Buyers Search?
New York Times | For Gen Z, TikTok Is the New Search Engine
Capacity Interactive | 2021 Performing Arts Ticket Buyer Media Usage Study
Arts administrators wear a lot of hats, and that trend has only intensified as our industry finds itself in recovery mode. With all of our energies focused on audience re-engagement and revenue growth, organizational culture can often take a backseat. But with more news of quiet quitting and high burnout levels, investing in your people has never been more critical.
Discover simple adjustments you can make today to lead stronger teams and create healthier work cultures that energize and empower the people around you.
Digital Download with Ali Blount (2:30) - Dan joins fellow senior consultant Ali Blount to review newly released benchmark data from CI's clients and share inspiration as you begin planning for the upcoming winter season.
Media Moment with Molly Shoemaker (14:35) - Dan chats with CI's Director of People Operations and Recruiting about finding your footing with flexible work and helping your team thrive in and out of the office.
CI to Eye Interview with Snehi Bhatt (29:45) - CI's President, Priya Iyer Doshi, sits down with a longtime friend and Leadership Development Executive at Admired Leadership to discuss the key pillars that set leaders up for success.
LINKS:
Capacity Interactive | Ask CI: Crafting The Perfect Digital Holiday Campaign
Work Appropriate | Remote Work Done Right with Marissa Goldberg
In the summer of 2020, George Floyd's murder and the protests that followed sparked crucial conversations about racial equity and social justice. Many arts organizations made public commitments to do better—both in their programming and behind the scenes. It's been three years since that pivotal moment, and it's still imperative to hold ourselves accountable to move the needle on diversity, equity, inclusion, belonging, and accessibility (DEIBA) in the arts.
In this episode, Dan sits down with social psychologist Dr. Evelyn Carter to discuss the unique DEIBA challenges and opportunities we face in the arts and entertainment industry. Dr. Carter shares expert tips for living our values, creating welcoming environments, and addressing implicit bias in the workplace and beyond.
LINKS
Many of us are staring down end-of-fiscal-year goals, but it's hard not to feel discouraged by prevailing economic uncertainty and ever-changing audience behavior. How do you keep your team motivated and mission-focused when the sands are shifting beneath your feet?
Hear from fellow arts marketers who are leading their teams in fresh and creative ways, and dig into positive industry trends that show us the way forward. Today's episode is the boost of inspiration you need to cross the fiscal finish line.
Media Moment (1:55): Dan sits down with CI Senior Consultant Ali Blount to discuss our industry's road to recovery. They review heartening research from IMPACTS Experience, share promising trends they're noticing with CI clients, and offer tips for adapting your digital marketing strategy to meet the moment.
CI to Eye Interview with Van Ackerman (17:15): Dan joins Van Ackerman, VP of Marketing & Communications at Cincinnati Arts Association, to reflect on the resilience of the arts. They discuss leadership lessons from the '08 recession and the power of psychological leadership to motivate a team.
CI to Eye Interview with Charles Buchanan (33:38): Dan catches up with Charles Buchanan, Senior Director of Marketing & Audience Development at the Detroit Symphony Orchestra. They discuss innovation during challenging times and tips for avoiding digital marketing ruts.
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LINKS
JCA Arts Marketing: Subscription decline is an opportunity—not a threat.
Capacity Interactive: 2023 Digital Priorities: Institutional Campaigns
IMPACTS Experience: Increased Digital Engagement Is a 'New Normal' for Cultural Entities
Capacity Interactive: 2023 Digital Priorities: Google Machine Learning
IMPACTS Experience: Here's What Organizations That Recovered Fastest Post-Pandemic Have in Common
AI is generating a lot of buzz in the marketing sphere—but is it really worth the hype? In this episode we pull back the curtain on AI, explore its strengths and limitations, and consider how it can help arts marketers meet their goals more efficiently.
Don't miss this special, extended conversation with CI's Managing Director Christopher Williams and Senior Consultant Dan Titmuss. They cover AI's impact on the arts industry and pinpoint areas where AI can have the largest impact on your day-to-day work.
LINKS
McKinsey & Company: The state of AI in 2022—and a half decade in review
Capacity Interactive: Google's Machine Learning
More than ever, arts marketers need to be purposeful about data collection, responsive to privacy regulations, and respectful of their audiences' preferences. In 2023 and beyond, it's all about staying user-centric and privacy-focused.
Not sure where to start? We've got you covered with expert insights from CI consultants, a data privacy expert, and a fellow arts marketer who's been in your shoes—and has a few words of advice.
Digital Download (2:20) - Dan chats with fellow Senior Consultant Alison Goldberg about changes in the data privacy space and why this topic is so time-sensitive for arts marketers. They break down commonly used acronyms so you can feel confident tackling this topic.
CI to Eye Interview with Jodi Daniels (13:30) - Certified data privacy expert Jodi Daniels shines light on the human side of this technical subject, and offers suggestions for ensuring your organization's practices are both legally compliant and trust-building.
CI to Eye inerview with Rob Macpherson (44:44) - Arts marketer extraordinaire Rob Macpherson reflects on his experience implementing privacy regulations at Birmingham Hippodrome, one of the U.K.'s most prolific theaters. He shares his first-hand experience and offers sage advice to U.S. marketers just starting on this journey.
LINKS:
CMSWire: Future of Data Collection: From Coercive to Consensual to Collaborative
As arts marketers, it's easy to get distracted by shiny new digital marketing trends or bogged down with low-impact work. In this episode, we cut through the noise and help you focus on strategies that yield the greatest results for your organization.
Media Moment (2:15) - News outlets, like Axios, have published eye-catching headlines about Google and Meta's declining ad dominance. The articles are shocking, but should we really panic? Dan sits down with CI's own Ally Duffey Cubilette to look at how U.S. ad spend is changing and what this really means for arts marketers.
Digital Download (10:30) - Dan chats with Principal Consultant Nick Nolte about the digital tools and strategies you should prioritize in 2023 and beyond. They'll cover topics like first-party data, Google Analytics 4, and SEO-focused content to help you gain high-impact results.
CI to Eye Interview (27:43) - CI's Managing Director Christopher Williams catches up with Ballet Austin's executive director Cookie Ruiz, who shares her team's unique approach to customer service. You'll also learn more about their powerful on-site engagement strategy and how it's turning newcomers into brand evangelists.
LINKS:
Slow fade for Google and Meta's ad dominance
Forecast 2023: Ad Spending Will Slow Down Next Year But Will Continue To Grow
In this episode, we revisit a panel discussion from Boot Camp 2022 about creating a more inclusive and accountable arts ecosystem. Diversity strategist and consultant Theresa Ruth Howard sits down with colleagues Jane Raleigh, Director of Dance Programming at the Kennedy Center, and Melanie George, Director of Artist Initiatives at Jacob's Pillow, to explore how institutional hierarchies can cap progress and how legacy structures can dampen organizational accountability.
As we near the end of 2022, arts organizations are still in recovery mode. Audiences are slow to return to cultural activities, and without proper benchmarks for attendance and revenue planning, arts leaders are without a compass. In this episode, we consider how audiences have evolved, propose fresh ways to engage and retain attendees, and share predictions for the new year.
Media Moment (1:40) - Priya talks with CI's VP/Managing Director, Christopher Williams, about a recent Washington Post article highlighting the pandemic's influence on human behavior.
CI's Stance (8:44) - Principal Consultant Sam Kindler connects with Sara Villagio, CMO of Carnegie Hall, who led a panel at Boot Camp 2022 on the future of subscriptions/memberships. They discuss crucial learnings to help you meet your audience's evolving needs.
CI to Eye Interview (23:22) - Priya sits down with Colleen Dilenschneider, Founder & Managing Director of IMPACTS Experience, to discuss the driving factors for audience behavior today and the power of mission and storytelling. Colleen also dives into pressing visitor engagement trends for 2023 as we continue on the road to recovery.
LINKS:
Washington Post: Is the Pandemic Over?
DMBC 2022: The Future of Subscription and Membership Models
JCA Arts Marketing: Subscription decline is an opportunity—not a threat
In this episode, we navigate themes of authenticity and personal connection. From building teams that reflect the individual team members' strengths to breaking down institutional facades, it's time to get personal.
Media Moment (01:00) - Erik and Priya nerd out about one of their favorite tools, the Clifton StrengthsFinder assessment. They explore using this framework to bring teams together who can achieve more than the sum of their individual strengths. CI's Stance (13:30) - Senior Consultant Alison Goldberg explains why Apple's Mail Privacy Protection may have skewed your email metrics for the last year and how to use these shifts to level up your user-centric email strategy. CI to Eye Interview (17:25) - Erik sits down with branding expert Jessica Watson to uncover why great branding evokes a feeling, what institutional authenticity actually looks like, and how you can manage change more sustainably by starting small.LINKS:
Tom Rath on The Elevate Podcast with Robert Glazer
In this episode, we embrace the evolution of digital content. From the shift towards vertical video across social media platforms to the imperative of website inclusivity and accessibility, you'll learn how to keep your organization moving forward.
Digital Download (09:32) - CI's graphic design team, Jess Berube and Stephanie Medina, share the scoop on Instagram's new immersive feed with design tips to help your content shine in 9:16.
CI's Stance (12:36) - CI Senior Consultants Sam Kindler and Laura Dauksewicz discuss why it's time for your organization to explore TikTok, and how you can take the first step.
CI to Eye Interview (18:47) - Christopher Williams sits down with web accessibility expert Sue Ann Rodriquez from Digital Accessibility by WeCo to find out what it really means for your website to be accessible to disabled users, from your site map to your purchase path.
LINKS:
In this episode, we explore themes of transition and turnover. From shifts away from old digital tools towards new ones to an honest exploration of the "Great Resignation" and its impact on the arts, it's time to adapt, grow, and evolve.
Media Moment - Erik and Priya break down an episode of Adam Grant's WorkLife podcast on "The Not-So-Great Resignation."
WorkLife Podcast with Adam Grant
Digital Download - CI team members Madelyn Frascella and Ally Duffey Cubilette share what you need to know about sunsetting two digital marketing tools: Expanded Text Ads for Search Marketing and Google's Universal Analytics.
CI Blog on Responsive Search Ads
CI's Stance - CI's Natalie Martinez and Rachel Purcell get real about the shift towards machine learning in digital as they break down Responsive Display Ads.
CI to Eye Interview - Priya sits down with Tom O'Connor, President of Tom O'Connor Consulting Group, to talk about the firm's new policy around salary transparency, what's really behind the "Great Resignation" within the arts industry, and how our work culture can adapt to be more sustainable for those with a passion for this field.
A Message from Tom O'Connor on Salary Transparency
Original Music by whoisuzo
In this episode, Priya sits down with Johnna Fellows Gluth and MP to dive into the 2021 Performing Arts Ticket Buyer Media Usage Study. They talk about what it means to be a loyal ticket buyer two years into the pandemic and explore where those audiences spend their time online, how much time they spend on their devices, and what influences them to purchase a ticket.
In this episode, Erik speaks with CI's new President, Priya Iyer, about her experience navigating a new and challenging leadership role. They discuss what supportive leadership really looks like, how to embrace feedback as a gift, and why it's important to make space for celebrating your accomplishments. In this vulnerable conversation, Priya reflects on the imposter syndrome she's felt in her new role and how her integrity has helped to carry her forward through challenges. Priya spent four years serving on the consulting team at Capacity Interactive and in July 2021 returned to CI in the role of President. Prior to CI, she worked in marketing and sales on Broadway. In 2019, she moved from NYC to Southern California where she lead the client services team at a full-service creative agency. Outside of work, Priya enjoys soaking up the sun, dancing, exercising, spending time with friends and family, traveling with her partner Neil, cuddling with her dog Bibo, and taking quiet time to unwind and meditate.
How might the transformative events of the last two years impact the arts sector going forward? In this conversation, Erik interviews cultural leaders Indira Etwaroo and Alex Sarian for their perspectives on how the personal evolutions we've each undergone are impacting our institutions, our communities, and the arts sector. They also discuss how organizations are addressing historical inequities, what it means for an institution to embrace relationship-building, and how cultural organizations can be community anchors.
How do you diversify your audience? You might start by rethinking whether that's even the best question to ask.
In this conversation, Theresa Ruth Howard poses alternative questions to leaders Zenetta Drew and Rachel Moore: What exactly does your organization mean when you talk about "diversifying audiences"? How do your organization's values inform audience diversification initiatives? How can you demystify the word "community"? This conversation will inspire you to find your organization's most authentic path to audience development.
Courtney J. Boddie is the VP of Education and School Engagement at the New Victory Theater. In 2019, TYA/USA awarded her with the TYA Community Impact Award for her leadership in New Victory SPARK (Schools with the Performing Arts Reach Kids), a robust multi-year arts program that has transformed New York City school communities previously underserved in the arts. Russell Granet is President & CEO of New 42. Under his leadership, New 42 expanded its virtual presentations and educator resources, including fully subsidized arts education for NYC public schools and the highly successful curriculum series, New Victory Arts Break. Among numerous honors, Granet was recently named by Crain's New York as a 2020 Notable LGBTQ Executive.
In this episode, Erik speaks with Courtney and Russell about the New Victory Theater's Spark Change research, quantifying the positive impact of performing arts education on kids. They discuss why early exposure to arts education fosters a lasting love for the arts, builds interpersonal skills, encourages innovation, and builds hope for the future in young people. They also share their insight into the New Victory is creating opportunities for access to the arts in the schools that need it most.
Claire Spencer is the CEO of Arts Centre Melbourne, a massive multi-disciplinary performing arts center in Melbourne, Australia, that stages over 4,000 performances and public events per year for an audience of 3 million annual visitors. Claire is largely credited with changing the course of Arts Centre Melbourne and has spearheaded the establishment of the Arts Wellbeing Collective (AWC) a mental health and wellbeing innovative collective set-up by the Arts Centre Melbourne in collaboration with the sector to better support the wellbeing of performing arts workers across the country. In January, 2020, Claire was recognized with an Order of Australia for services to the arts and community.
While many U.S. arts organizations are preparing to reopen their venues, organizations in Australia—where the virus has been effectively contained—began the reopening process as early as January. In this episode, Claire shares the lessons she's learned from Arts Centre Melbourne's reopening. She also explains why her team put most of their digital programming on hold and discusses the importance of acknowledging and supporting team members' mental health challenges in the workplace.
The CI to Eye Podcast will be taking a break for the summer. We'll be back with new episodes after Labor Day! In the meantime, check out the CI to Eye Episode Guide Blog Post for a guide to which past episodes you might want to revisit in the meantime. Have a great summer!
Nik Rama is Principal Analytical Lead at Google, where he also leads mindfulness sessions as part of the gPause program. He is interested in the intersection of neuroscience and meditation, particularly how to use these practices to help reshape the mind, improve wellbeing, and accomplish goals.
In this episode, Nik shares the science behind how meditation can change your brain's structure. He also outlines the research that convinced Google to incorporate meditation into their company because of its powerful effects on health and productivity. If you're looking to re-center and relax, Nik leads a 10-minute mindfulness practice in the episode!
In response to demands for increased user privacy, Apple's iOS 14 update will make it easier for users to control how their data is shared with apps. Following suit with legislation like GDPR in Europe and CCPA in California, Apple and other tech companies are making updates that will change the entire digital marketing ecosystem as we know it. In this episode, Erik talks with four CI consultants about what arts organizations can do to prepare.
Andrew Recinos is the President and CEO of Tessitura Network, a member-owned non-profit dedicated to advancing the business of arts and culture through technology, service, and community.
In this episode, Andrew shares what he's learned from hundreds of arts leaders during his nine-month "listening tour" before becoming CEO of Tessitura. He also discusses what it's like to take on a new role during a pandemic and explains why he's confident the arts will experience a surge when venues can safely reopen.
Madeline Pollis is the Industry Enrichment Content Producer & Assistant to the President at Capacity Interactive. A former opera singer, Madeline joined Capacity Interactive in 2018, where she produces the CI to Eye podcast and CI to Eye Live! She also works on the Arts Industry Digital Marketing Benchmark Study, Performing Arts Ticket Buyer Media Usage Study, and is part of the team that produces Digital Marketing Boot Camp for the Arts.
In this episode, Erik and Madeline have a candid conversation about the Arts Industry Data Analysis: Pandemic Response research. They explore the methodology and share never-before-heard insight into what the data means for arts marketers now and into the future.
Robin Terry is the Chairwoman and CEO for Motown Museum in Detroit, a cultural gem founded in 1985 by her grandmother, the late Esther Gordy Edwards, who was a senior executive at Motown Records and sister of Motown founder Berry Gordy. Robin has devoted the last two decades to preserving the legacy of Motown's iconic brand.
In this episode, Robin shares why celebrating Motown's history can unite people from different backgrounds during this period of political polarity. She also discusses adapting her leadership during the pandemic, the Motown Museum's ongoing expansion, and why virtual environment opportunities have forever changed the museum's programming.
In this episode recorded live at Boot Camp 2020, Theresa Ruth Howard and Mariclare Hulbert explore multi-layered marketing challenges, including how to respond thoughtfully to social media criticism and how to communicate equity-related issues. They also investigate various power dynamics between marketers and organizational leaders, artists and organizations, and the general public and organizations.
Robin Cantrill-Fenwick is the CEO of Baker Richards, a UK-based arts software and consultancy specializing in earned income strategy and audience development for arts and culture. He was previously the Deputy Executive Director of the Mercury Theatre Colchester and led digital transformations for organizations including the UK's National Trust, The Royal Society (National Academy of Science), and the University of Westminster.
In this episode, Robin shares data from The Insights Alliances' Culture Restart Audience Tracker, an audience sentiment tracking survey that aims to understand attendees' attitudes toward engaging with culture now and in the future. Robin also explains why behavioral audience segmentation is crucial, how socially distanced seating can become a premium offering, and how organizations can address digital programming pricing challenges.
Jennifer Rosenfeld is a business coach who collaborates with top musicians to create profitable and impactful online education businesses. A leading arts entrepreneurship educator and speaker, Rosenfeld has worked with non-profits, university music programs and conservatories, and professional musicians on developing a wide range of educational and artistic projects. She received her JD/MBA from Stanford University.
In this episode, Jennifer Rosenfeld believes there is a massive financial opportunity for arts organizations between the very extreme zone of low ticket prices and enormous major gifts. In this episode, she shares how arts organizations can create significant new earned income revenue streams through in-depth educational and experience-oriented programs. She also explains why arts organizations are underutilizing their vast human capital and shares how your organization can leverage its assets to help close budget gaps.
The guests on CI to Eye during 2020 provided hope, guidance, and insight during an unprecedented year. Listen to all of their "CI to Eye moments" in this special episode as you rebuild and reimagine the future of the arts.
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