Hunter
04/07/22
The former executive director of Iowa City’s Englert Theatre has been announced as the new executive director of Hancher Auditorium.
Andre Perry, who ran the downtown theatre for 11 years before stepping down in December, is tasked with taking Hancher into a new business model. The University of Iowa announced they will be phasing out its $1.5 million annual support by 2024.
Perry has been credited for developing the Mission Creek and Witching Hour festivals, centered at the Englert. The Gazette says that he currently serves as the UI director of arts, engagement and inclusion and as a senior adviser to the executive officer of diversity, equity and inclusion.
Longtime Hancher director Chuck Swanson announced his retirement in February and agreed to stay on until the summer. Over the years, he’s been lauded for his ability to bring national and international events to Hancher. The auditorium had to be razed and rebuilt after the floods of 2008. The Gazette reports at the time Swanson announced he was stepping down, he said it was time to bring in “fresh eyes” to run the venue as it moves to a self-sustaining model.
As a tribute to Swanson, Perry’s position will carry the title of “Chuck Swanson Hancher Executive Director.” He begins his new role on May 16th.