News

Palace Theatre Announces New Board Leadership; Kevin Johnson Named President & CEO

The Palace Performing Arts Center, Inc (d/b/a Palace Theatre), one of the Capital Region’s premier performing arts centers, today announced a new slate of officers for its Board of Directors and the promotion of Executive Director Kevin Johnson to President and CEO.

Johnson, who has served as Executive Director since 2021, assumes the new title following five consecutive years of fiscal surpluses for the organization and a period of significant growth for the historic performing arts center.

“It has been an honor to serve as Executive Director of the Palace Theatre over the past five seasons,” said Kevin Johnson, President & CEO, Palace Theatre. “Following the unprecedented closures of 2020, no one knew what the future would hold for an industry that is challenging even under the best of circumstances. To emerge from that period with five consecutive years of operating surpluses—while continuing to expand our Community Engagement Programs, grow our live performance schedule, and invest in the preservation and maintenance of our historic performing arts center – is an accomplishment of which I am incredibly proud.”

“I am deeply grateful for the unwavering support of our Board of Directors, the dedication of our exceptional staff, and the countless volunteers who have embraced my vision for the future of this historic landmark. Their commitment has made these achievements possible, and I look forward to building on this momentum in the years ahead.”

The organization also announced the election of Charles Pinckney, Regional President for Albany and the Hudson Valley at M&T Bank, as Chairman of the Palace Theatre Board of Directors. Pinckney takes over the Chairman position after serving on the Board of Directors for the past two years.

“The Palace Theatre has been at the heart of the Capital Region for generations, bringing people together through shared experiences and unforgettable performances,” said Pinckney. “I’m honored to serve as Board Chairman and look forward to working with the board and Palace staff to help to support its continued success and impact on our community.”

Pinckney replaces outgoing Chairman Steve Baboulis, who has served in the position since 2018 and remains an active member of the Palace Theatre Board of Directors.

“It’s been an honor to serve as Board Chair of the Palace for the past nine years,” said Baboulis. “Kevin Johnson and his fine team are achieving great things for the community, and I’ve been proud to work alongside him during this time of growth for the theatre. I look forward to continuing to serve as a regular board member in the future.”

In addition to Charles Pinckney assuming the role of Chairman, the Palace also announced several other officers to its Board of Directors, including:

• Vice Chair: April J. Ulrich, Vice President and Private Bank Regional Executive, NBT Bank
• Secretary: Leola Edelin, General Manager, Renaissance Albany Hotel

“Art not only feeds & nourishes the soul of our community, but it also quite literally fuels our local economy. As the crown jewel of venues in our Capital City, the Palace Theatre is a truly magical place that does so much more than stage incredible performances—it serves as the ultimate catalyst for Albany’s growth. When the marquee lights up and thousands of patrons are drawn downtown, it creates a powerful ripple effect, keeping our restaurants busy, our streets lively, and our business district robust. A thriving cultural scene is the cornerstone of a thriving city.” – Dominick Purnomo, Co-Owner of Yono’s & dp An American Brasserie and Board Member of the Palace Performing Arts Center