Professional Development

Midwest Arts Conference

The results of our recent field survey indicated that most presenters identify artists through word-of-mouth and by attending conferences. One of the best places for touring artists and presenters to connect is our annual Midwest Arts Conference. The Conference is one of the largest convenings in the nation for performing artists, artist managers/agents, theater and facility managers, and arts administrators from throughout the United States and beyond, and provides a platform for these performing arts professionals to come together for an educational and motivational four days focused on promoting and presenting live touring performing arts.

At the Conference, presenters are able to find artists that fit their seasons and budgets while strengthening and broadening their skills and knowledge. Presenters can learn from a variety of professional development sessions, as well as make new contacts and strengthen existing relationships during Marketplace exhibit hall hours and at social events. State and regional presenter consortia from the central United States hold meetings at the Conference to discuss block-booking opportunities and general business, as well.

State presenter networks

Many of the presenter consortia serving our member states also hold meetings and conferences throughout the year. Contact the consortium serving your state for more information on becoming a member and/or attending meetings or conferences.

Illinois Presenters Network Chair: Stephen Cummins, College of DuPage (Glen Ellyn, IL) send e-mail
Indiana Presenters Network Chair: Kyle Ridout, Paul W. Ogle Culture and Community Center (New Albany, IN) send e-mail
Iowa Presenters Network Chair: Amy Hunzelman, University of Northern Iowa (Cedar Falls, IA) send e-mail
Michigan Non-Profit Presenters Network Chair: Elaine Williams, James W. Miller Auditorium (Kalamazoo, MI) send e-mail
Minnesota Presenters Network Chair: Sean Dowse, The Sheldon Theatre (Red Wing, MN) send e-mail
Ohio Arts Presenters Network Program Coordinator: Jodie Engle, OAPN (Columbus, OH) send e-mail
Wisconsin Presenters Network Chair: Thomas J. Robbins, Schauer Arts & Activities Center (Hartford, WI) send e-mail