Gary Dunning is a recognized leader in performing arts administration who leads organizations through change, expansion, and growth across genres with an unwavering commitment to mission driven work, artists, and audiences.
Gary began his career at American Ballet Theatre (ABT) before becoming Executive Director of Houston Ballet in 1986. He later returned to ABT in 1992 as Executive Director and went on to lead the Big Apple Circus in 1996. In 2011, he became the fourth President and Executive Director of the Celebrity Series of Boston, one of the country’s pre-eminent arts presenters, guiding the organization through a period of significant growth, change, and innovation.
Under Gary’s leadership, the Celebrity Series has strengthened its financial foundation while expanding its commitment to artistic excellence, accessibility, and community engagement. He has expanded dance programming into new venues, and championed emerging artists through initiatives such as Stave Sessions (contemporary music) and the Debut Series (classical music), introducing Boston audiences to fresh, dynamic talent. He also launched Neighborhood Arts and Arts for All!, ensuring access to the performing arts reaches communities and schools across Greater Boston. Gary has spearheaded public performance projects that invite broad public participation, including Street Pianos Boston, Le Grand Continental, Jazz Along the Charles, and Concert for One. He has also led the organization through the challenges of the COVID-19 era, strengthening its long-term stability through capital campaigns and the creation of the Innovation Fund.
Beyond his work with the Celebrity Series, Gary has played a vital role in the national arts landscape. He has served on and chaired panels for the National Endowment for the Arts, the Texas Arts Council, and the New York State Council on the Arts. He has also served on the board of ArtsBoston and as Chair of the Board of Dance/USA. Currently, he is a member of the Steering Committee for the Boston Cultural Leaders Coalition and serves on the board of the Bellforge Arts Center.
Gary holds a B.A. from Princeton University and a master’s degree from the London School of Economics and Political Science. He lives in Boston with his wife, Anne Dunning.