Changes in leadership start 2024 for the Wilmington arts community

WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY)– It’s a new year, and there are big changes for the Wilmington arts community. 

“I think 2024 is an exciting, exciting year,” said Zach Pluer, the CFCC’s Wilson Center’s new Executive Director.   

The changing of the guard across the board for the Wilmington arts at the start of 2024, with some not so unfamiliar faces.   

The Wilson Center, Thalian Hall, and the Opera House Theater company have all undergone new leadership this month.  

“We’re going to continue great relationships with each other, make sure we’re not stepping on each other’s feet, and just continue to bring great entertainment to this growing region,”  said Pluer. 

Pluer has taken on the role as Executive Director for the Wilson Center after serving the center in several other ways over the years.

Ray Kennedy, who has a deep history in the Opera House Theater, is taking the reins as their new director, and Shane Fernando was named Thalian Hall’s new CEO, filling the shoes of the late Tony Rivenbark. 

“We’re very blessed here to have so many organizations that are so committed to the community and have such powerful missions, and we all have our own niche of how we serve our community,” said Fernando.    

Fernando says these changes only enhance the strength of the community, and believe they will accomplish great things as a unit.   

“We all serve the community in such different ways, and we also find those ways that crossover where we can collaborate and do something bigger,” said Fernando.   

“We’re super excited to just build a new path ahead and continue killing it,” said Pluer.    

Both Pluer and Fernando began their new roles this week.