Porchlight Music Theatre Welcomes First Executive Director

Porchlight Music Theatre has announced the appointment of Jeannie Lukow as the organization's first executive director, effective September 2. Lukow, a founding member of Porchlight Music Theatre's Board of Directors and its president for the past six years, was co-owner of Bespoke Cuisine for the last 12 years after transitioning from a 15-year career in marketing communications and association management.

"Jeannie has been intrinsically associated with Porchlight Music Theatre since the formation of the company, serving on the board, on committees and as our board president. A successful Chicago entrepreneur in her own right, the opportunity to have this particular person with her passion for music theatre, possessing the perfect combination of business acumen and historical Porchlight knowledge, makes her the perfect candidate to serve as our company's first executive director," said Artistic Director Michael Weber.

Lukow has led many initiatives during her tenure as president including the hiring of Michael Weber as artistic director, expansion of Porchlight's mainstage and other artistic programming, creation of an exciting new five-year strategic plan, increases in subscriptions and ticket revenues, the development of The School at Porchlight and the move to a new business location that encompasses administrative offices, fully functioning scenic and costumes shops and the building of multiple rehearsal studios to be utilized by visiting companies, businesses and Porchlight.

"It has been so rewarding to be a part of this company over the last two decades. It's clearly such a passion for me and this new opportunity came at just the right time, personally and professionally. I'm excited to finally devote my full focus to Porchlight Music Theatre and to bring my experience in not-for-profit management and small-business leadership at a very transitional time for the organization. As we begin an exciting 20th Anniversary season, I look forward to working with Michael and the team to build on the theatre's wonderful legacy," added Lukow.