Michael Kaiser's Email & Phone Number

📖 Summary

Michael Kaiser is a renowned American theatrical producer known for his influential leadership in the performing arts industry. With a career spanning over four decades, Kaiser has left an indelible mark on the world of theatre, opera, and dance. He has been instrumental in turning around struggling arts organizations, steering them toward financial stability and artistic excellence.

Kaiser's journey in the arts began when he became the executive director of the Kansas City Ballet in 1981. It was during this time that he honed his skills in arts management and earned a reputation for his innovative and strategic approach to leadership. He then went on to lead the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater and the American Ballet Theatre, where he continued to demonstrate his ability to reinvigorate and significantly grow arts organizations.

One of Kaiser's most significant achievements came during his tenure as president of the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in Washington, D.C. Under his leadership, the Kennedy Center experienced a remarkable transformation. Kaiser's strategic vision and fundraising prowess helped the institution not only overcome financial challenges but also thrive artistically, making it one of the leading performing arts centers in the world.

Throughout his career, Kaiser has emphasized the importance of strong leadership, financial stability, and artistic innovation in the arts. He is known for his "Kaiser principles," a set of tenets that guide arts organizations toward long-term success. These principles include the need for clear artistic vision, effective marketing, prudent financial management, and a commitment to diversity and inclusion.

In addition to his work in arts management, Kaiser has been a staunch advocate for the cultural sector. He has authored several books, including "The Art of the Turnaround: Creating and Maintaining Healthy Arts Organizations," which offers practical advice for leaders in the arts. He has also been a sought-after lecturer and consultant, sharing his expertise with arts organizations worldwide.

Kaiser's influence extends beyond the United States, as he has been involved in advising cultural institutions in countries such as South Africa, Japan, and Russia. His commitment to fostering global cultural exchange and his belief in the power of the arts to transform communities have earned him admiration and respect across the international arts community.

Today, Kaiser continues to be a prominent figure in the arts world. He serves as the chairman of the DeVos Institute of Arts Management at the University of Maryland, where he imparts his vast knowledge and experience to the next generation of arts leaders. His unwavering dedication to the arts and his track record of success have solidified his legacy as a trailblazer in the field of arts management and production. With his passion for excellence and his knack for turning around struggling organizations, Michael Kaiser has left an indelible mark on the American theater scene and beyond.