Two major Dallas performing arts organizations, the AT&T Performing Arts Center (AT&T PAC) and Dallas Theater Center (DTC), recently announced that they are proposing to merge their operations.
The proposed AT&T PAC organization will be led by president and CEO Warren Tranquada, though DTC will continue to produce theater under the leadership of Enloe/Rose Artistic Director Jaime Castañeda. Financially and structurally, the merger will allow the two organizations to create a broader range of lasting theatrical experiences.
Combining resources will also allow the companies to build on their education offerings, which will include student matinee performances and after-school/summer theater programs, as well as backstage tech training, dance engagement, leadership training, and community workshops.
The merger also fits the vision for the new Dallas Arts District, which is central to the revitalization of downtown Dallas.
The proposal is not yet confirmed: once approval has been received from the boards of both organizations, the project will enter a due diligence and capital fundraising phase to complete the merger by the beginning of 2027.
“By coming together, we are able to achieve much more than either of us could do on our own,” said Kevin Moriarty, Dallas Theater Center Executive Director. “Not only will this innovative model benefit our audiences, artists, students and our city, it also strengthens and expands our combined ability to meet the opportunities and challenges
of the future.”
“The performing arts industry has been undergoing profound systemic change nationwide,” said Warren Tranquada, president and CEO of the AT&T Performing Arts Center. “Stagnation is not an option. Two major Dallas institutions are coming together in a proactive way to write our future, creating a new artistic and business model that can set the stage for strength and sustainability in North Texas and beyond.”