Paramount Accepts Executive Resignation

Media Contact:

Gary Taylor   
Chair, Paramount Theater of Charlottesville Board of Directors
434.817.1099      

For Immediate Release

October 3, 2006

The Paramount Theater has accepted the resignation of its President & CEO, Chad L. Hershner.  Hershner has been a vital part of the historic theater and the restoration process that placed it at the forefront of Charlottesville’s cultural scene, having served as the facility’s Executive Director and ultimately its first President & CEO.  Long active in the League of Historic American Theaters as well, Hershner is excited about the opportunity to pursue an even greater challenge.

The Board of Directors of The Paramount Theater of Charlottesville, chaired by Gary Taylor of Northwestern Mutual, will name a search committee and develop a process for selecting a successor. “On behalf of the Board, I thank Chad for his years of service to The Paramount Theater,” Taylor remarked.  “We recognize his many contributions to the betterment of the arts in our community and throughout Central Virginia.”

Hershner’s energy and enthusiasm have been his hallmark while developing this one-of-a-kind venue.  During his time with The Paramount, over $16 million was raised for the theater’s renovation from private individuals, corporate donors, foundations, and civic sources.  Prior to joining The Paramount five and a half years ago, Hershner worked on a similar campaign project at a performing arts center in Pennsylvania, and brought that experience to benefit The Paramount’s endeavor. 

Since reopening in December 2004, the theater has hosted in excess of 150 events enjoyed by more than 108,000 audience members hailing from 33 states (including Virginia) and 3 countries.

Taylor comments that “while the loss of Hershner will be difficult for our young organization, we are fortunate to have a strong team committed to the theater’s ongoing success.”  The Paramount currently employs a 15-member professional staff with corporate and performing arts/entertainment industry backgrounds, and expertise in administrative, fundraising, marketing, sales, technical, and production areas. 

“Along with the professional team and the dedicated volunteers of the theater’s Boards and committees,” Taylor notes, “we view this opportunity as one in which we can further refine the vision of The Paramount for Charlottesville and beyond.  We will continue to deliver great arts and entertainment events as we plan for the 2007-08 Season and many more to come.”