4 days ago
- Entertainment
- Boston Globe
Celebrity Series chief Gary Dunning to retire following 2025-26 season
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Under Dunning's leadership, Celebrity Series has continued its tradition of bringing star power to Boston stages, including artists such as pianist Yuja Wang, cellist Yo-Yo Ma, and trumpet player Wynton Marsalis.
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But he has also worked to broaden the organization's appeal. One year after his 2011 arrival, Dunning oversaw the creation of 'Arts for All!,' a community outreach program that promotes local artists and offers free performances. Another early program, the Debut Series, highlights young and emerging classical musicians. More recently, he's overseen the launch of the Stave Sessions, which focuses on contemporary music, and the Jazz Festival.
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Perhaps equally important, Dunning led a $23 million capital campaign that expanded the organization's endowment and created dedicated funds for programming.
Dunning, who led American Ballet Theatre and the Houston Ballet prior to his arrival at Celebrity Series, called it an 'honor to steward this incredible institution and contribute to Boston's arts ecosystem.'
'The artists, audiences, staff, Board, donors, and community partners I've worked with have inspired me every day,' he said in a statement. 'I am so proud of what we've achieved together, and I look forward to seeing Celebrity Series continue to grow and innovate.'
Malcolm Gay can be reached at
