ERIK WOLENBERG NAMED EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF GRAND RAPIDS CIVIC THEATRE

Current Leader Bruce Tinker Will Transition to Artistic Director

Wolenberg’s most recent leadership role is a five-year tenure at Hope Network where he oversaw the organization’s fundraising, external relations, investments, and administration, along with creating a diversified, sustainable revenue model while also rebuilding the Hope Network Foundation. He previously served as the Marketing and Public Relations Manager for Gilda’s Club Grand Rapids/LaughFest. At SpartanNash, Wolenberg was a Product Development Manager, as well as Culture and Corporate Affairs Manager where he prioritized DEI efforts like leveraging equitable opportunities for contractors and vendors.

In addition to current and former Civic Board of Directors leaders serving on the search committee, staff members also played a role in the selection of the new Executive Director. Staff participated in a day of interviews that included a lunch/Q&A session, and individual department meetings. Three key staff members also served on the Search Committee from the first day of the process, including Director of Development, Kimberly Vincent. “Erik stood out to me from the very beginning with his collaborative and forward-thinking leadership style,” Vincent shares, “I see the organization growing through his understanding of the importance of nurturing partnerships and fostering meaningful relationships.” 

Erik Wolenberg, Incoming Executive Director of Grand Rapids Civic Theatre

No stranger to Grand Rapids Civic Theatre and the West Michigan arts scene, Wolenberg’s family has experienced the positive effects of the organization’s programming. As the parent of two young children, Wolenberg has attended many productions with his family, and is the proud father of a School of Theatre Arts student. “In his cover letter, Erik described the impact that classes at Civic Theatre had on not only his son but also on his family and himself, and his passion for education remained evident in all interviews moving forward,” shares Search Committee Member and Director of Education and Outreach Jenna Betka-Pope, “Erik has the skillset to connect with students, staff, volunteers, and donors, as well as to create meaningful relationships with the communities we serve, and grow the organization in reliable and innovative ways.”

As the new Executive Director, Wolenberg will value the organization’s past and bring new initiatives that build on the theatre’s victories, leading the organization to success in new and bold ways. With Civic’s centennial approaching in 2026, the organization is set to see even more changes in leadership that were announced with the Executive Director search earlier this year. Bruce Tinker has served Grand Rapids Civic Theatre since 1999 when he was hired as the organization’s 11th Executive and Artistic Director following the longtime tenure of Paul Dreher; Tinker held this position until 2021 when Associate Director Allyson Paris began serving as the organization’s first sole Artistic Director through her departure in mid-2023. Since then, Tinker has once again been wearing both hats and played a key role on the Search Committee, but he will soon pass the Executive Director torch to Wolenberg. Tinker will oversee Civic’s dynamic programming until his pending retirement in 2027 at the end of the Centennial Season which will include mainstage productions, special programs, and events under his new title. “As the Artistic Director, Bruce’s continued mentorship and guidance will ensure a smooth transition for Erik in his role as Executive Director,” shares current Board Chairperson and Search Committee Co-Chair Brett Karhoff, “Together, their collaboration over the next few years will strengthen Civic Theatre, creating exciting new opportunities and possibilities.” Tinker himself says, “I am excited to work with Erik because of his vision of launching Civic’s second century of exceptional live theatre and education in an ever-changing world; I am looking forward to learning new ways to grow through his breadth of knowledge in business, marketing, and development.” 

Wolenberg is excited to begin his new role at Grand Rapids Civic Theatre on Monday, November 4. He plans to spend his first few weeks meeting key stakeholders like donors and partners, engaging with staff and getting to know the day to day operations of the organization, and connecting with the community. “It is humbling to know that I have the honor of representing the institution, and especially the people who make it outstanding: the dedicated staff, volunteers, sponsors, and partners.” He adds, “I like to say that Grand Rapids is the biggest small town there is, but I would also posit that most people have a much closer connection to Grand Rapids Civic Theatre than they may realize. We are going to try to help people make those connection points and explore each possible opportunity to engage every part of our community.”

A public opportunity to meet Executive Director Erik Wolenberg and his family, and to congratulate Bruce Tinker on his adapted role as Artistic Director,  will be announced at a later date. Until then, the public can engage with Grand Rapids Civic Theatre programming by attending the 2024 holiday show, Cats, on stage at the Meijer Majestic Theatre from November 15th to December 15th and exploring educational opportunities through the School of Theatre Arts at grct.org. 

Photography credit: Ashley Wierenga | Sincerely Ashley