Making Art Work

Current music director of the Buffalo Philharmonic and Virginia Symphony, conductor JoAnn Falletta is not the average music director. In addition to her vital role as conductor, multi-GRAMMY winner Falletta is also deeply involved in the administrative operations of the organizations with which she works. During part one of our interview, we discuss the importance of the partnership between the artistic and administrative sides of an arts organization, the process of making a recording of a full orchestra, and the importance of her role in cultivating arts philanthropy.

Currently serving as executive director of Dallas Black Dance Theatre (DBDT), Zenetta Drew has taken the company from a local, founder-driven organization to a fully professional company with a worldwide following. Founded in 1976 by artistic director Ann Williams, DBDT has grown during Ms. Drew's tenure to present more than 300 annual performances on a budget of $2.3 million and was named one of the top five organizations of color in the nation. In this conversation with Ms. Drew, we will explore her thoughts on community engagement, making connections with business leaders, and the importance of a strong partnership between artistic and executive directors.