Jennifer Turner, President & CEO, Tennessee Performing Arts Center

In an interview with Invest:, Jennifer Turner, President & CEO of the Tennessee Performing Arts Center (TPAC), discussed how the current economic conditions are impacting the arts, education, and community access programs, and highlighted the importance of public-private partnerships for TPAC. “We’ve continued this model in our push for a new performing arts center,” said Turner.

What key milestones has your organization experienced over the past 12 to 18 months?

We are currently in our Broadway subscription renewal period. We’ve reached 81% renewal and are just 30 packages away from our all-time high in subscriptions. We’ve also steadily increased our annual fund to better balance contributed revenue with earned revenue. This adjustment, which began during the pandemic, has allowed us to consistently meet goals each year and demonstrates real growth.

As Nashville continues to evolve as an arts and cultural destination, how is that shift changing your partnerships and audience engagement strategies? 

Nashville continues to grow as a tourism destination. We draw patrons from every county in Tennessee and beyond, confirming that we serve as a statewide resource. We also attract participation from the broader Mid-South region. The performing arts provide a communal experience that brings people together — unlike schools, churches, or workplaces that often remain siloed. It’s a unique space where individuals from all backgrounds and geographies can gather.

How is the demand for live performances changing, and how is TPAC innovating its offerings in response to this change? 

Four years ago, we began shifting our programming to better include family-oriented offerings. We recognized a gap in programming that families could enjoy together, beyond traditional fundraising events like galas. Young families, especially those who value exposing their children to art and culture, have responded positively, participating in Family Day and other programs. We’re proud to have one of the youngest Broadway audiences in the country, and we attribute that to our early engagement. We introduce the arts through school programming, then continue building that relationship as they grow into patrons, subscribers, and donors. We intentionally support the full lifecycle of engagement.

We’re focused on intentionally bringing in programming that reflects the diversity of Nashville. From Ballet Folclórico to flamenco groups, we’re working to ensure everyone feels welcome and represented. It’s not just about one community; it’s about creating a space where all can see themselves.

What education and community access programs do you offer and what impact are they having?  

We address more than just price sensitivity — we consider all potential barriers to access, including socioeconomic challenges, transportation, disability access, and whether someone feels that the theater is for them. Our educational and community offerings aim to break down those barriers. One of my favorite programs is Disney Musicals in Schools, which gives schools a full year to stage a musical. We provide props, costumes, lighting, choreography, and technical training. Over an eight-month period, schools develop the capability to run a theater program. It’s sustainable and powerful, and it shows faculty and parents that the arts matter in helping kids thrive. It’s critical to embed arts in schools.

What role do public-private partnerships play and how do they help TPAC achieve its mission? 

TPAC was founded through a public-private partnership. The State of Tennessee supported the idea, but the funds had to be raised through contributions from every county. That initial $4 million effort remains the base of our endowment. We’ve continued this model in our push for a new performing arts center. For every dollar raised, the state matches it five to one, so if we raise $100,000, the state contributes $500,000. This mirrors our origin story and includes participation from the city, state, and private sector.

How are current economic conditions impacting performing arts, and what strategies are in place to navigate headwinds? 

Like many, we’ve felt the ripple effects of federal budget cuts. Donors and sponsors have been impacted, which in turn affects community organizations. We’re also mindful of broader issues, from tariffs to potential nationwide economic shifts. Our response has been to adopt a diversified business model, so we’re not reliant on a single revenue stream. We constantly assess risk and adjust strategies to stay ahead.

Looking ahead, what are your top priorities and goals for TPAC for the coming years? 

Our main goal is to continue delivering and expanding services to our community. That’s our mission. One of the tools to achieve that is securing a new facility. We’re currently pursuing state grants to support this vision. A new performing arts center remains a top priority.

We’re working with a great architect to design this beautiful, world-class performing arts center. It will not only be a top-tier venue for performances but a masterpiece in itself.

Is there anything we have not yet touched on that you feel is important to mention as it relates to performing arts? 

The arts play a vital role in mental health, they build self-esteem and helping people become better humans. In a time when loneliness is at epidemic levels, the arts offer healing. They’re not just “extra.” In a thriving community, they generate jobs and economic activity, but more importantly, they help people process trauma and emotions and provide new perspectives. They are essential and must be nurtured.

Audience connection is also a huge part of experiencing the arts. Even if you’ve seen a show before, it’s worth experiencing again. Each performance is different, and there’s a unique energy from the audience that shapes the experience. Artists feed off that energy, and the connection between performers and audience is irreplaceable.