Larry Gawronski has been named Executive Director of the Topeka Performing Arts Center. Gawronski was appointed Interim Director by VenuWorks in August 2015 while a national search was conducted for a new director.
“Larry has done an excellent job as Interim Director in Topeka. Larry’s vast experience from his tenure in the industry and VenuWorks substantiates our confidence that he is the right person for TPAC,” said Steve Peters, President of VenuWorks.
Originally from Buffalo, NY, Gawronski served as the Director of Operations and subsequently the Sales and Marketing Director of the Buffalo Convention Center. Larry worked at the Riverside Convention Center in Rochester, NY followed by the Danville Civic Center in Danville, IL. He joined VenuWorks in 2000 and has served as the Executive Director of the Vicksburg Convention Center in Vicksburg, MS and the Bridge View Center in Ottumwa, IA. Most recently, Larry was the National Director of Sales and Sponsorship of VenuWorks.
“The TPAC Board of Trustees is ecstatic about naming Larry as our permanent Executive Director,” said Sue Buckley, recent President of the TPAC Board of Trustees. “With his diverse experience, Shawnee County can count on a rebirth of TPAC as we celebrate its 25th Anniversary this year. Larry has the vision to lead our organization with enthusiasm and the skills to attract exciting events to our venue. Please welcome him to our community and invite him to your civic meetings.”
VenuWorks and the TPAC Board of Trustees recently renewed their agreement for management of the Topeka Performing Arts Center. VenuWorks, formerly Compass Facility Management, has managed the TPAC since 2002.
“I look forward to working with Larry and VenuWorks and filling TPAC with many exciting shows in the coming year,” said Jim Wempe, President of the TPAC Board of Trustees.
“I am thrilled to accept the position of Executive Director for this venerable theater,” said Gawronski. “We are approaching the venue’s 25th anniversary, commemorating its repurposing to an art deco performing arts center. Celebration plans will include a special Silver Anniversary Season of programming. Look for shows that reflect our marketing mantra – Excitement Returns.”