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From the Blog

Encore Center for Performing Arts Names Mark George President to Advance Regional Venue in DuPage County

Meredith Krantz April 16, 2026

Former Music Institute of Chicago President and CEO to lead next phase of Chicagoland performing arts destination ELMHURST, Ill – The Encore Center for...

Former Music Institute of Chicago President and CEO to lead next phase of Chicagoland performing arts destination ELMHURST, Ill – The Encore Center for Performing Arts (ECPA) today announced that nationally respected arts leader Mark George has been named President, marking the organization’s next phase as it advances plans to establish a regional performing arts venue serving DuPage County and the greater Chicagoland area. George will work with the ECPA board, supporters, and community partners to guide the organization through its next stage of growth as the project moves from vision toward realization. George previously served for 15 years as President and CEO of the Music Institute of Chicago, where he expanded the organization’s reputation as a national leader in music education, performance, and community programming. In recognition of his contributions to the arts, the Chicago Tribune named him Chicagoan of the Year in Classical Music in 2011. “Mark brings the rare combination of artistic vision, nonprofit leadership, and community-building experience needed to guide a project of this scale,” said Jeff Budgell, Chairman of the Board for Encore Center for Performing Arts. “Our board has spent years developing the vision for a regional venue that will serve audiences throughout DuPage County and Chicagoland. With Mark’s leadership, we are entering the next chapter of turning that vision into reality.” Throughout his career, George has focused on expanding access to the arts while developing innovative programs that connect artists, educators, and communities. Prior to leading the Music Institute of Chicago, he served as Director of the Hartt School Community Division and Director of Distance Learning at the Cleveland Institute of Music. George also played a leadership role in the resurgence of the Grammy Award–winning Cleveland Chamber Symphony, helping reestablish the ensemble as a major force in contemporary music. “I’m honored to join Encore Center for Performing Arts at such an exciting moment and look forward to engaging with the people of Elmhurst and the surrounding communities of DuPage County,” said George. “This project represents a powerful opportunity to create a regional home for the performing arts in DuPage County that will serve audiences across Chicagoland. A venue like this can bring people together through music, theater, dance, supercharge economic development, and create a vibrant cultural gathering place for the community.” ECPA is working to establish a 26,000-square-foot regional performing arts venue in Elmhurst, featuring a 550-seat auditorium with world-class acoustics, along with rehearsal spaces and flexible rooms for education, events, and community programming. Located directly across from the Elmhurst Metra station, the venue will provide convenient access for audiences along the western rail line and will sit steps from restaurants, shopping, and more than 1,500 nearby parking spaces, helping create a vibrant arts destination in the heart of DuPage County. “Mark understands how the arts bring communities together,” said Laura Michaud, Secretary of the Board for Encore Center for Performing Arts. “His leadership and collaborative approach will help ensure this regional venue becomes a cultural anchor for DuPage County and the surrounding region.” Once operational, the Encore Center for Performing Arts is projected to generate $8.2 million annually in consumer spending, support 52 permanent jobs, and contribute approximately $692,000 in annual tax revenue to local and state governments, including more than $200,000 to the City of Elmhurst. About Encore Center for the Performing Arts The Encore Center for Performing Arts is a non-profit 501(c)3 organization dedicated to building a state-of-the-art venue for live music, theater, dance, comedy, and events to serve the western suburbs. Visit EncoreCenterforPerformingArts.org to see upcoming events.

The Power to Transform

Shawna July 8, 2025

The Transformative Power of Live Performing Arts by Laura Michaud and Melissa G. Wilson Live performing arts have a profound impact on both individuals...

The Transformative Power of Live Performing Arts

by Laura Michaud and Melissa G. Wilson Live performing arts have a profound impact on both individuals and communities. From the artists who express themselves through their craft to the children who grow by sharing their talents, everyone involved is touched meaningfully. Audiences, too, benefit by gaining new insights, emotional connections, and life experiences. Whether drama, music, dance, theater, or poetry, live performances are valuable to all. Beyond the emotional benefits, these performances also have a positive economic impact. People attending shows often make an evening out of it, spending money on dining, transportation, and other services. Studies show that for every theater seat filled, patrons spend an average of $38.46 in the local community. That number can rise to $65 per person in some places, like Elmhurst. In addition to economic benefits, the performing arts enhance the quality of life. Attendees often report feeling uplifted by their experience, which can foster a sense of community pride and belonging. People from all walks of life come together to en-joy performances, helping to build empathy and understanding across cultures. According to a study by Americans for the Arts, 78% of people say the arts provide positive experiences, and 72% agree that arts foster shared understanding between people of different backgrounds. Moreover, 89% of those surveyed feel that local arts venues are a source of community pride, and 86% believe it’s important for future generations to access cultural experiences. The benefits extend to families, too, especially children. Arts education has been shown to significantly improve critical thinking, problem-solving, and creativity, while also fostering teamwork, empathy, and self-confidence. By supporting and attending live performances, we not only help the economy but also strengthen our communities and contribute to the well-being of individuals. In the end, the arts create a vibrant, connected future for areas like DuPage, enhancing both personal fulfillment and community growth.

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