Beyond the Stage: Warren Tranquada on Leadership, Culture, and Community

In this episode of Learning From Leaders, we sit down with Warren Tranquada, President and CEO of the AT&T Performing Arts Center. From his roots in Toronto to nearly two decades at the New Jersey Performing Arts Center, Warren brings a wealth of nonprofit leadership experience to Dallas’s thriving Arts District. He shares the moment that first hooked him on live performances, and reflects on how that passion continues to shape his leadership style today.

Warren explores the vital role philanthropy plays in sustaining cultural institutions, explaining how collective support has transformed Dallas into a destination for world-class performances and economic growth. He discusses the Center’s priority of reaching new and more diverse audiences, the unique opportunity the 2026 FIFA World Cup offers to brand Dallas as a global arts city, and how technology is reshaping live experiences. With insights on strategy, partnerships, and the intersection of art and human health, Warren highlights why the arts are essential to both community vitality and personal well-being. Tune in to hear how strong leadership and philanthropy are shaping Dallas’s cultural future.

Episode Details:

Season 2 | Episode 9

Host: Lili Clark | Vice Chair, The Cary Council; Senior Associate, LH Capital, Inc. / Lyda Hill Philanthropies

Guest: Warren Tranquada | President and CEO, AT&T Performing Arts Center

Producer: Dustin Magwire | Digital Media Senior Manager, Southwestern Medical Foundation

Videography: Brazos Film & Video - www.brazosfilms.com

Disclaimer:

The Southwestern Medical Foundation Podcast is intended solely for educational purposes. Nothing contained therein constitutes, nor should be interpreted as medical, healthcare, financial or legal advice.

Southwestern Medical Foundation strives for accuracy in its publications, including the Podcast. However, due to the nature of the topics discussed, there frequently is not a clear-cut “right answer.” Consequently, Southwestern Medical Foundation cannot guarantee the accuracy or sufficiency of any information presented.

The views of the hosts and guests are their own and do not necessarily represent the views or opinions of their employers or affiliated organizations, nor Southwestern Medical Foundation, the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center or the University of Texas System. The inclusion of any guest or mention of any product or service does not constitute an endorsement thereof, nor of any company, employer, or organization with which the guest, product, or service is affiliated.