Arts/Entertainment

ARTS/ENTERTAINMENT

TROY ANDREWS

Founder

Trombone Shorty Foundation

One of New Orleans’ most famous and busy musical ambassadors gives back to his hometown through the Trombone Shorty Foundation, which aims to inspire the next generation of players through music education, instruction, mentorship and performance opportunities. Each spring, the foundation’s largest annual fundraiser, Shorty Fest, draws fans who want to support the scene.

On Recording During the Pandemic: Although Andrews owns Buckjump Studio in the Lower Garden District, making his most recent album required extra planning. “We had too many people to do it at the same time in the studio,” he said. “It wouldn’t be safe. We had to break them up in sections: rhythm section, horns and singers. ... The most important thing is everyone stayed healthy.”

ARTS/ENTERTAINMENT

AIMEE BROWN

Executive Director

New Orleans Wine & Food Experience

Brown leads a nationally recognized festival with an annual attendance of more than 7,000. All proceeds from the nonprofit event benefit culinary education in the city. “I love creating relationships with chefs. restaurateurs and winemakers,” she said. “Supporting their brands and mission is a huge passion of mine and I am so lucky to be able to do that on a daily basis.”

Education: Loyola University New Orleans (BA) Best Fest: “NOWFE, of course! It embodies everything great about our city.” On the Horizon: “NOWFE returns June 7-11 2023.” Hidden Gem: “Not so hidden anymore, but Banana Blossom. Absolutely incredible.” Passion: “Hanging out with my 6-year-old son.” Noprofit Cause: Café Reconcile

ARTS/ENTERTAINMENT

CLARE BUROVAC

General and Artistic Director New Orleans Opera Association

In 2020, Clare Burovac took over as director of the New Orleans Opera. Previously, she was director of artistic operations at the Portland Opera. Her current mission is to “enrich the lives of all people by producing opera of the highest artistic quality and providing education opportunities through traditional and innovative approaches.”

Education: Bowling Green State University (BM) Go-to Restaurant: “I have to give a shout-out to Mosquito Supper Club. It was an experience of a lifetime!” Advice: “Do the best you can until you know better. Then, when you know better, do better.” Nonprofit Cause: “No question: New Orleans Opera!”

ARTS/ENTERTAINMENT

TREY BURVANT

VP of Studio Operations

Second Line Stages

In 2008, Burvant created a film and television studio that has hosted projects from Oprah, Ryan Reynolds, Beyoncé, Leonardo DiCaprio and many other Hollywood A-listers. As an actor, he appears on screen (“Get Out”) and on stage. In addition, he is the producer of several feature films and leads the Louisiana Film Entertainment Association.

Education: Harvard University (MFA), College of Santa Fe (BFA) Best Fest: French Quarter Festival Advice: “Keep your head down and get it done.” Hobby/Passion: The New York Times crosswords Hidden Gem: Philly cheesesteak at Rainbow Grocery on Magazine Nonprofit Cause: NOVAC

ARTS/ENTERTAINMENT

QUINT DAVIS

CEO

Festival Productions Inc.

Davis is the producer and director of the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival, an epic annual event that debuted in 1970 and has since presented Louisiana music, food and crafts to a global audience. The two-weekend celebration attracts tens of thousands to the Fair Grounds Race Course each April and May. Local officials estimate an annual economic impact of $400 million.

Best Fest: New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival Hidden Gem: “Can’t tell you that, otherwise it wouldn’t be a hidden gem ...” On the Horizon: “Jazz Fest 2023!” Hero: George Wein Proud Moment: Davis won a Grammy for his role as producer of Professor Longhair’s album “Houseparty New Orleans Style.”

ARTS/ENTERTAINMENT

ASALI DeVAN ECCLESIASTES

Executive Director

Ashé Cultural Arts Center

Ecclesiastes is the author of two well-known TED Talks and was chosen as one of the city’s 300 most influential citizens for the New Orleans Tricentennial celebration. At the Ashé Cultural Arts Center, she runs the day-to-day operations. The Central City organization’s mission is to “use art and culture to support human, community and economic development.”

Education: Vanderbilt University (BA) Highlight of Leadership: “Fulfilling the dreams of my ancestors by being unabashedly me and being of service to my community” First Job: “Canvasser for Sidney Barthelemy’s mayoral campaign when I was 12 years old” Poboy Pick: Vegan hot sausage with mustard, pickles, lettuce and cheddar

ARTS/ENTERTAINMENT

JENNY HAMILTON

Executive Director

New Orleans Ballet Association (NOBA)

Hamilton’s 30-year tenure with the New Orleans Ballet Association began as an intern and continued when she was hired as director of marketing and public relations. She was appointed executive director in 1998 and has since implemented cooperative management strategies to grow NOBA’s programs and services, including the creation of an emergency fund.

Education: University of New Orleans (MBA and MAAA), Converse University (BA and BBA) Hobby/Passion: Playing the piano and singing On the Horizon: “The return of a full season of main stage dance companies to local theaters and the continued growth of our tuition-free programs Advice: “You’re only as good as your last performance.”

ARTS/ENTERTAINMENT

WALTER ISAACSON

Leonard Lauder Professor of American History and Values

Tulane University

Isaacson, a renowned author and one of the city’s most accomplished native sons, is past CEO of the Aspen Institute and has been the chairman of CNN and the editor of Time magazine. His books include biographies of Leonardo da Vinci, Steve Jobs, Albert Einstein and Benjamin Franklin. Isaacson is also a host of the show “Amanpour and Company” on PBS and CNN.

Education: University of Oxford, Harvard University Advice: From Walker Percy: “There are two types of people who come out of Louisiana, preachers and storytellers. For heaven’s sake be a storyteller. The world has too many preachers.” Poboy Pick: Casamento’s oyster loaf Snoball Style: Condensed milk at Hansen’s

ARTS/ENTERTAINMENT

BEN JAFFE

Creative Director Preservation Hall

Jaffe is the second-generation director of Preservation Hall, which has been presenting acoustic traditional jazz concerts most nights of the year for the last six decades. He also tours the world playing bass and is chairman of the board of the Preservation Hall Foundation, which aims to “protect, preserve and perpetuate New Orleans jazz music and culture.”

Education: Oberlin College (BMus) Nonprofit Cause: “Anything related to supporting one of our city’s greatest natural resources: the music and greater cultural communities” Advice: “A smooth sea never made a skilled captain.” Poboy Pick: “An ‘All That Jazz’ from Verti Marte that I got after a Bingo show ...”

ARTS/ENTERTAINMENT

DJ JOHNSON

Owner

Baldwin & Co.

This New Orleans native (and middle child of seven) opened a bookshop and cafe named after writer and activist James Baldwin in early 2021. After a successful IT career out of town, he returned home, purchased several buildings and created a hub for literacy programs, book clubs and other community outreach in Faubourg Marigny. He also operates the nearby NOLA Art Bar.

Education: Clark Atlanta University Go-to Restaurant: Morrow’s Best Fest: French Quarter Fest Hidden Gem: The Franklin On the Horizon: Baldwin & Co. Foundation Advice: “Never stop reading.” Hero: “My mother” Nonprofit Cause: Son of a Saint

ARTS/ENTERTAINMENT

ANTHONY MACKIE

Founder

East Studios

Mackie is a New Orleans native and NOCCA grad who has risen to fame as one of the stars of the Marvel superhero movies and many other feature films. In 2022, it was reported that the actor known for playing Captain America purchased a 20-acre site in New Orleans East to build a film studio. Mackie said he’s interested in developing projects from script to finished product.

Education: The Juilliard School Career: In addition to the Marvel movies, Mackie has starred in “The Manchurian Candidate,” “Notorious,” “Eagle Eye,” and “The Hurt Locker,” among dozens of others. Real-Life Hero: Mackie worked with a leading roofing manufacturer to fix roofs for New Orleans homeowners who sustained damage during Ida.

ARTS/ENTERTAINMENT

EMILY MADERO

President and CEO

French Quarter Festivals

Since Madero became president in 2017, one of the most popular festivals in the city has increased its focus on a mission to showcase and support New Orleans’ culture and heritage. Madero has championed initiatives such as “festival recycling, inclusivity and community partnerships designed to contribute to local economic well being.” French Quarter Festival debuted in 1984.

Education: Tulane University (MBA, MA and BA) Go-to Restaurant: N7 Hidden Gem: Boiled crawfish from J&J Seafood in Gretna Hobby/Passion: “Kayaking and exploring the coast of Maine with my family” Best Part of Job: “My incredible team, board, crew members, musicians and partners” BIZNEWORLEANS.COM

ARTS/ENTERTAINMENT

PJ MORTON

Founder

Morton Records

PJ Morton is a multiple Grammy Awardwinning R&B and soul singer, songwriter, performer and producer whose latest project, “Gospel According to PJ,” earned the 2021 Grammy Award for Best Gospel Album. He’s also a longtime member of the pop band Maroon 5. In addition to his artist’s resume, Morton runs his own record label, which he hopes will be “the New Orleans Motown.”

Education: Morehouse College (MS) Highlight of Leadership: “Being able to speak for the voiceless” Go-to Restaurant: Morrow’s Snoball Style: Grape and strawberry Poboy Pick: Shrimp Fave Jazz Fest Food: Crawfish bread Fave Parade: “Endymion and the Marching 100!”

ARTS/ENTERTAINMENT

SAMIR MOWAD

Senior Vice President and General Manager

Harrah’s New Orleans Casino & Hotel

After more than 17 years working in a variety of management, hospitality and human resources roles in the gaming industry, Mowad has returned to his hometown to oversee the execution of a $325 million investment project at Harrah’s Casino that is part of a planned rebranding to Caesars New Orleans and includes the addition of a 340room hotel tower.

Education: University of Kansas (MBA), Scholl College of Podiatric Medicine (BS) Go-to Restaurant: Jacques-Imo’s Hidden Gem: Rocky & Carlo’s Best Fest: French Quarter Festival Advice: “People don’t care how much you know until they know how much you care.” Nonprofit Cause: Ronald McDonald House

ARTS/ENTERTAINMENT

ANWAR NASIR

Executive Director

Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra

A Philadelphia native and former professional dancer, Nasir became executive director of the LPO in 2021. Before arriving in New Orleans, he held leadership positions at the Los Angeles Philharmonic, Omaha Symphony and Atlanta Ballet, and was a frequent speaker at national conferences. The LPO was formed in 1991 as a musicianowned collaborative orchestra.

Education: Syracuse University (BS) Best Part of Job: “I get to help bring music into the lives of thousands of New Orleanians and GulfSouth residents.” Advice: “Find a reason to laugh every day.” Go-to Restaurant: Shaya Best Fest: Essence Fest Hidden Gem: NOLA Art Bar

ARTS/ENTERTAINMENT

BRANDAN ODUMS

Owner

Studio BE

An acclaimed and highly sought-after visual artist and filmmaker, Odums’ work has been featured on MTV, in the New Orleans Museum of Art and published in college textbooks, among other places. His gallery space, Studio BE, is a 35,000 square-foot warehouse that displays visual art depicting the stories of revolutionaries, heroes and everyday New Orleanians.

Education: University of New Orleans (BS) Go-to Restaurants: Addis Nola and I-tal Garden Hidden Gem: Bennachin Hobby/Passion: “Putting paint where it ain’t.” Heroes: My parents Advice: “Your creative process is not limited to your productivity.” Best Fest: Jazz Fest

ARTS/ENTERTAINMENT

DAVID PACE

General Manager NOLA Motorsports

Since taking the helm in 2021, Pace has initiated repairs and upgrades to the track’s facilities and brought back races and events. With more than 20 years of experience, he said he’s seen firsthand what the excitement of motorsports can bring to a community. “I really enjoy working in the trenches and next to my staff to create an experience the guests will never forget,” he said.

Hidden Gem: “My favorite for food, and especially the oyster menu, is Sidecar, and my favorite place to grab a drink and take in the ambience is Bar Marilou.” Advice: “When someone tells you that you can’t do something, don’t quit. Always push harder.” Hero: “My grandfather was my ultimate role model and someone I hold in great regard.”

ARTS/ENTERTAINMENT

WENDELL PIERCE

Co-Owner WBOK Radio

An award-winning producer, director and actor, Pierce is also a businessman committed to creating positive change in his hometown as a co-owner of WBOK Radio. His role on the Amazon series “Jack Ryan” takes him around the world, but he’s invested — literally and figuratively — in New Orleans. He also starred on Broadway in the iconic role of Willy Loman in “Death of a Salesman.”

Education: The Juilliard School (BFA) Advice: “Life is not fair. Exercise your right of self determination.” Hidden Talent: “Stilt-walking and juggling. It’s been years, though, and not at the same time.” Fave Jazz Fest Food: Vaucresson sausages Best Fest: “Gentilly Fest in the historic Pontchartrain Park neighborhood”

ARTS/ENTERTAINMENT

DAN REAL

Regional President - South

Caesars Entertainment

Real, who recently celebrated his 26th anniversary with Caesars Entertainment, is responsible for six casinos in the company’s portfolio: Harrah’s New Orleans, Harrah’s Louisiana Downs, Horseshoe Bossier City, the Belle of Baton Rouge, Harrah’s Gulf Coast and the upcoming Horseshoe Lake Charles. A passionate Saints and Pelicans fan, Real is excited to go “all in” on New Orleans.

Education: University of Nebraska at Omaha (MBA), Northern Illinois University (BS) Nonprofit Cause: Triumph Over Kids Cancer Advice: “Be gritty. Everyone else will do the normal work, but you can go further with grit.” Poboy Pick: “Anything with debris and cheese” Hidden Talent: “I have the ability to retain tons and tons of useless information.”

ARTS/ENTERTAINMENT

GEORGE SCHEER

Executive Director

Contemporary Arts Center (CAC)

Scheer is an artist, founder, director and cultural policy advocate who “fosters creative communities at the intersection of aesthetics and social change.” He is also co-founder of Elsewhere, an experimental museum and artist residency, and writes about the arts, cultural policy, urbanization and place. Other projects include Kulturpark, a public art exhibition in a former Soviet amusement park.

Education: University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (PhD), Duke University (MA), University of Pennsylvania (BA) On the Horizon: “‘The Wait Room,’ an aerial dance set at Algiers Point, will tell a powerful story about waiting on loved ones who are incarcerated.” Poboy Pick: Shrimp, fully dressed Go-to Restaurant: N7

ARTS/ENTERTAINMENT

TIMOTHY TODD SIMMONS

Executive Director

Jefferson Performing Arts Society

When the board of directors for the organization added the position of executive director in 2020, the job went to Simmons, who had most recently served as executive director with Opera Naples in Naples, Florida. Prior to that, Simmons served as executive director of the New Orleans Opera for eight years and assistant conductor with the San Diego Opera for 13 years.

Education: San Diego State University (MBA), Indiana University Bloomington (MA), Cameron University (BA) Best Fest: Jazz Fest Hidden Gem: Westwego Performing Arts Theatre Advice: “Don’t give advice, share experiences.” Best Part of Job: “I get to make magic every day.” Hobby/Passion: “Making music”

ARTS/ENTERTAINMENT

SUSAN TAYLOR

Montine McDaniel Freeman Director New Orleans Museum of Art (NOMA)

Since 2010, Taylor has kept NOMA a center for New Orleans cultural activity and emphasized new education initiatives. She serves on multiple boards and has won many awards, including the Ordre des Arts et des Lettres from the Consul General of France. Taylor is a past president and board member of the National Association of Art Museum Directors.

Education: New York University (MA), Vassar College (BA) On the Horizon: “Major fall exhibitions, family festivals and LOVE in the Garden.” Best Fest: Japan Fest Go-to Restaurant: “The newly renovated Café NOMA, of course!” Hobby/Passion: Tennis

ARTS/ENTERTAINMENT

DAVID VILLARUBIA

Founder

Degas House

Villarubia was a pilot for Delta Airlines when he purchased the only known home of French Impressionist Edgar Degas to save it from disrepair. A full restoration and nearly three decades later, the historic site is now a recognized French landmark and functions as both a museum and a venue for weddings, corporate meetings and painting classes.

On the Horizon: “The post-pandemic world, expanding weekend brunch and opening up the Degas House tour to growing numbers.” Poboy Pick: Garlic oyster poboy from Liuzza’s by the Track Hidden Talent: “Making people laugh at life’s idiocy” Go-to Restaurant: Galatoire’s for Friday lunch

ARTS/ENTERTAINMENT

JASON WAGGENSPACK

Head of Possibilities and CEO

Ranch Film Studios

Waggenspack worked his way up from the bottom of the film industry, starting as a production assistant and moving into becoming a supervising location manager on some of Louisiana’s biggest movies. His title at the studio he founded is “head of possibilities,” which he said reflects his “extremely optimistic attitude about taking on just about anything.”

Education: University of New Orleans (BA) Go-to Restaurant: Cochon Best Fest: French Quarter Festival Hidden Gem: Nagomi Sushi Advice: “Patience as you try to climb the ladder and always be networking and finding unexpected connections.” Nonprofit Cause: The Cool Cooperative BIZNEWORLEANS.COM