The Carson Center Announces Retirement of Executive and Artistic Director Mary Katz
Celebrating 22 Years of Transformative Leadership and Dedication to the Arts
The Board of Directors of the Luther F. Carson Four Rivers Performing Arts Center announces the upcoming retirement of its esteemed Executive Director and Artistic Director, Mary Katz, marking the close of a remarkable chapter in the institution’s history. Mary Katz has been an integral part of The Carson Center since before its doors opened in 2004, beginning her involvement in 2003 with the initial fundraising efforts. Over the years, she has served as a board member, the Center’s education and community engagement director, and, since 2017, as both executive and artistic director. Her 22-year commitment to Paducah’s regional performing arts center has been transformative, guiding the Center through unprecedented challenges and remarkable achievements.
Under Katz’s leadership, the Carson Center has flourished as a vibrant cultural hub. Her vision and passion have shaped the organization’s mission, driving the development and implementation of long-term strategic plans and programming that ensured growth and sustainability. “We appreciate the dedication that Mary Katz has had for the Carson Center in the many different roles she has served these past 20 plus years,” said Sandra Wilson, who is just finishing a two-year term as chair of the Carson Center Board. “The Carson Center has benefitted greatly from Mary’s energy, creativity and leadership since before it even opened.
She has been a strong supporter as a volunteer, donor, and board member even before joining the staff initially to start our children’s and family programming. Katz’s tenure included the introduction of technical rehearsals for 14 different Broadway tours
including “White Christmas” and “Beetlejuice,” which brought a concentrated influx of spending and economic activity to the city. This benefited a variety of local businesses and created employment opportunities, and having a positive multiplier effect of over $35M on the local economy. Katz’s programming efforts also fostered the development of the Center’s First Stages Series for young audiences, the Art for All Series, Myre faith-based series, arts camps, youth performances, robust educational offerings. Her steadfast commitment to keeping the Center’s doors open during the pandemic introduced creative programming like “Movies by Moonlight”, “Take Five”, intimate stage shows, concerts on the lawn and themed dinners.
Following the pandemic, the theater experienced a renaissance, hosting acclaimed Broadway shows including “Book of Mormon,” “Peter Pan,” “Chicago,” “Tina – The Tina Turner Musical,” “Hairspray,” and “Come From Away.” The venue has welcomed a diverse range of performers, including sold out performances by Alice Cooper, Leanne Morgan, Nelly, Rodney Carrington and ZZ Top. Over its 21-year history, the Center has entertained more than 2.3 million guests from all 50 states and beyond.
Katz’s leadership extended beyond artistic programming. She helped guide comprehensive fundraising initiatives, cultivated vital donor relationships, secured sponsorships and grants, and practiced sound financial stewardship to ensure the Center’s stability. Her innovative marketing strategies and commitment to community partnerships strengthened the Center’s brand and outreach, forging deep connections with audiences, local leaders, and peer organizations.
Since assuming the executive director role, Katz, alongside her team, achieved annual budget growth of $1.5 million, a 15% increase adjusted for inflation, advancing the Center’s mission to make arts and cultural experiences accessible to everyone in the region. Sandra Wilson added, “Mary’s commitment and her innovative spirit have moved the Carson Center to the next level, and we are so fortunate to have gained from her leadership and her energy.”
Our community has benefited immensely from Mary’s exceptional leadership,” said Mayor George Bray. “I have been continually impressed by her intellect and creativity, which have left a lasting impact on our city. As she enters this new chapter, I look forward to any opportunity to collaborate with her on projects to keep Paducah moving.”
As Katz prepares to retire by the end of the year to spend more time with her family and embrace the next chapter in her life, the Center’s Board expresses its deepest gratitude for years of visionary guidance and steadfast dedication. “I am deeply grateful for the opportunity I have had to shape and serve this remarkable institution and to play a part in creating and sustaining Paducah’s vibrant arts community,” said Katz. “Every artist, audience member, colleague, board member, donor, and community partner has inspired me in countless ways. Together, we have accomplished so much, and I am filled with appreciation and pride. Thank you for trusting me with this journey—I eagerly look forward to watching The Carson Center continue to thrive and to supporting its bright future.”
The Carson Center has engaged the Arts Consulting Group to lead the search for a new executive director.
Updates will be shared as the transition unfolds.