The Shoreline Arts Alliance has named Eric Dillner the organization’s new CEO and executive director. According to a press release issued by the organization Tuesday, Dillner previously served as artistic/producing director of in-house productions at the David A. Straz, Jr. Center for the Performing Arts in Tampa, Fla., artistic/general director of the Shreveport Opera in Louisiana, and managing director of the Skylight Opera Theatre in Milwaukee, Wis.
A St. Louis native, Dillner earned a bachelor of music degree in vocal performance (tenor) from Butler University in Indianapolis, Ind., and a master’s degree in opera production from Florida State University. He has also studied economics and business at Hendrix College in Conway, Ark.
Dillner described the Shoreline Arts Alliance as “a gem — that is right here in a beautiful, beautiful part of the world — that is doing such good work in the community.”
Asked what challenges he and the organization face — along with other like-size arts organizations — Dillner said, “The economy’s tough for all arts organizations.”
Still, he said, “Arts organizations are needed most when the economy’s down and trouble is here.”
Donita Aruny, the Shoreline Arts Alliance’s program and marketing director, said that Dillner was hired after a national search and with a commitment from the Board of Directors to growth the organization.
Mark Serchuck, president of the Shoreline Arts Alliance’s Board of Directors, was quoted in the above-mentioned press release as saying: “Eric brings expertise and vitality to our organization. His vision and perspective is right on track with our growth plans for the future.”
Dillner succeeds Janis Astor del Valle, who served as the Shoreline Arts Alliance’s executive director from August 2009 to winter 2010.
Learn more about Eric Dillner at his website, ericdillner.com.