VenuWorks names new executive director for Cedar Rapids facilities

CEDAR RAPIDS — The Alliant Energy PowerHouse, Paramount Theatre and several other Cedar Rapids events venues have a new executive director in entertainment industry insider Robert Thomas.

VenuWorks, which oversees management of the city-owned facilities, tapped Thomas for the role in a recent press release citing his nearly two decades of industry experience and “strong background in multiunit operations, talent buying and strategic growth.”

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"I'm honored to join VenuWorks as executive director in Cedar Rapids," Thomas said in the release. "I look forward to working with our talented team to serve the community and bring outstanding events to the city and (its) citizens.”

In his new role, Thomas will oversee operations of the Alliant Energy PowerHouse, Paramount Theatre, McGrath Amphitheatre and the ImOn Ice Arena Cedar Rapids. He replaces outgoing former director Darren Stearns.

Thomas’ background in event management spans more than 18 years — including his most recent role as president of programming and talent buying at TempleLive, a live entertainment brand that revitalized historic structures into live music venues.

His booking history includes a variety of genres from rock and country to comedy and other live entertainment, which the release attributed to an “ability to curate programming that appeals to a wide audience.”

"We are excited to welcome Robert to the VenuWorks family and look forward to the fresh perspective he brings to our Cedar Rapids team," VenuWorks CEO Steve Peters said in the release. "We are confident that under his direction, our venues will continue to thrive and serve as vibrant hubs for the Cedar Rapids community."

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