The Charlotte Ledger Podcast21 Feb 2025

In the room where it happens, with Tom Gabbard of Blumenthal Arts

What does it take to turn a city into a top destination for Broadway tours? Tom Gabbard, CEO of Blumenthal Arts since 2003, joins The Charlotte Ledger Podcast to pull back the curtain on Charlotte’s booming arts scene. Under Gabbard's leadership, Blumenthal has transformed into a powerhouse, managing four theaters and hosting more than 1,000 events annually.

In this engaging conversation—recorded in front of an audience at The Sharon at South Park—Gabbard shares the inside story of how Charlotte became a top 10 market for Broadway touring shows and what it was like being in the room when Lin-Manuel Miranda first pitched the musical "Hamilton."

In a conversation with The Ledger's Cristina Bolling, and in responding to audience questions, Gabbard discusses Blumenthal’s efforts to expand the arts beyond the stage, how it adapted during the pandemic, the balancing act of booking national tours while fostering local talent, and what it’s like being a longtime Tony Awards voter.

Whether you're a theater lover, an arts advocate, or just curious about the business behind the spotlight, this episode is packed with behind-the-scenes stories and insights on the future of the arts in Charlotte.

You can find out more about Blumenthal Arts at blumenthalarts.org.

You can find out more about The Charlotte Ledger at TheCharlotteLedger.com.

The Charlotte Ledger Podcast is produced by Lindsey Banks.

This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.thecharlotteledger.com/subscribe

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