Gary Dunning, who for nearly 15 years has been president and executive director at the venerable presenting organization Celebrity Series of Boston, announced Thursday that he is stepping down.
Dunning, who over the course of his tenure has expanded the organization’s artistic offerings and financial profile, will retire in June 2026, when the 2025/2026 season concludes. The group’s board of directors will launch a national search for Dunning’s replacement this summer.
“Gary has led the organization boldly and effectively, guided by an expansive and generous view of the value of performing arts for all,” Board chair Joshua Boger said in a statement, describing Dunning as a rare leader who blends vision with an effective management style. “His passion for the performing arts may come from his heart, but his actions to effect those plans comes from a deep understanding of the challenges of being a presenter of the very best of a variety of performing arts, from music to dance to spoken word.”
Under Dunning’s leadership, Celebrity Series has continued its tradition of bringing star power to Boston stages, including artists such as pianist Yuja Wang, cellist Yo-Yo Ma, and trumpet player Wynton Marsalis.
But he has also worked to broaden the organization’s appeal. One year after his 2011 arrival, Dunning oversaw the creation of “Arts for All!,” a community outreach program that promotes local artists and offers free performances. Another early program, the Debut Series, highlights young and emerging classical musicians. More recently, he’s overseen the launch of the Stave Sessions, which focuses on contemporary music, and the Jazz Festival.
Perhaps equally important, Dunning led a $23 million capital campaign that expanded the organization’s endowment and created dedicated funds for programming.
Dunning, who led American Ballet Theatre and the Houston Ballet prior to his arrival at Celebrity Series, called it an “honor to steward this incredible institution and contribute to Boston’s arts ecosystem.”
“The artists, audiences, staff, Board, donors, and community partners I’ve worked with have inspired me every day,” he said in a statement. “I am so proud of what we’ve achieved together, and I look forward to seeing Celebrity Series continue to grow and innovate.”
Malcolm Gay can be reached at [email protected]. Follow him @malcolmgay.