Allan C. Vella, Philanthropist, CEO and Performing Arts Advocate
The Powerhouse CEO Moving The Fox Theatre Into a New Age
Few Atlanta landmarks are more legendary than the Fox Theatre. At the helm of this iconic performance space—hosting everything from Broadway shows to comedy acts—is Allan C. Vella. With a background in hosting major events like NCAA Tournaments and Presidential visits, Vella happily landed at the Fox Theatre in 2006. Since then, the father of three has dedicated his life to helping this historic venue shine its brightest.
What is it like to lead a legacy organization like the Fox?
It’s paramount that we maintain our status as a National Historic Landmark. We never conduct ourselves in a way that would jeopardize that status. However, we know that we must always remain relevant to our community, our audiences and the entertainment industry at large. We do this by incorporating innovative technology and best practices to move us forward alongside our contemporaries. The proof is in our leadership and recognition as one of the highest attended theaters of our size in the world for more than 20 years.
How do you hope the Fox continues to be an integral part of Atlanta?
I believe the Fox Theatre is one of the few true icons of Atlanta. Our community came together for the “Save the Fox” campaign in the 1970s, and those efforts still pay dividends today. We are everyone’s theater, and all are welcome through our doors. We create that grand sense of occasion, and we always live up to our mission of preserving and sharing the Fox Theatre with the Atlanta people and beyond.
What is one or two of your proudest achievements at the Fox?
Our work with our community partnership program, Fox Gives, is my proudest achievement to date. Fox Gives has provided grants and technical assistance to historical theaters throughout the state of Georgia for the past 15 years, and the Fox Theatre has routinely contributed over $500,000 from our operating proceeds each year to other venues in need. Thanks to our staff’s hard work and dedication, we are able to “pay it forward” and help other communities in their preservation efforts.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
Stay humble, and never burn a bridge!