Mike Brand, executive director of Wharton Center for Performing Arts, is the newest recipient of the Samuel J. L'Hommedieu Award. Brand received the award – which is the highest honor offered to an executive of a performing arts center affiliated with touring Broadway – during this year's Broadway League Conference in New York City on May 12.
At Wharton Center, Brand's role oversees planning and programming for the Cobb Great Hall, Pasant Theatre, MSU Concert Auditorium and Fairchild Theatre. He received the Samuel J. L'Hommedieu Award for demonstrating excellence in management and leadership.
"I was surprised and honored to be presented with this prestigious award," Brand said in a statement. "None of it would be possible without the amazing support I have received during my thirty-plus years in this industry, especially from the outstanding staff at Wharton Center."
In addition to his work behind the scenes, Brand is also a performer. His credits include 16 seasons performing trumpet with the St. Paul Chamber Orchestra and regular performances with the Minnesota Orchestra and the Minnesota Opera Orchestra.
The Broadway League consists of 700-plus members, ranging from theatre owners and operators, to producers, presenters and general managers across North America.