Eagle Passan Mari Riddle Named Executive Director of Grand Performances
(Press Release) LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – The Board of Directors of Grand Performances is pleased to announce the appointment of Mari Riddle to the position of Executive Director for Grand Performances. Ms. Riddle will replace Michael Alexander who will retire after nearly 30 years of service.
The Grand Performances (GP) Board of Directors conducted an extensive nationwide search and Ms. Riddle was selected in an executive search process guided by Arts Consulting Group, based in Hollywood, California and offices around the U.S. as well as Canada.
“We’re so pleased to welcome Mari into the Grand Performances family and know we have found the perfect person to lead this dedicated organization with three successful decades of serving Los Angeles into a bright future,” said Board Chair Rahul Marwah. “We’d also like to thank Michael for his leadership and enthusiasm for Grand Performances. His direction has made Grand Performances into one of the most respected performing arts entities in the country.”
Mari’s professional credits include more than 25 years of executive management for philanthropic organizations; developing and implementing programs, launching special initiatives and events, and developing board and staff. In her leadership role, she has advocated for adult literacy, women’s economic development, and cultural arts to name just a few. Her community excellence has been recognized. Mari is a recipient of the James Irvine Foundation Leadership Award, Southern CA Edison and Center for Nonprofit Management Executive Nonprofit Leadership Award and was named a Rising Star by the L.A. Latino Chamber of Commerce.
María Isabel (Mari) Riddle is the daughter of Octavio Rodolfo Riddle (RIP) and Elvira Ferriño de Riddle; and is from Eagle Pass, Texas.
Mari Riddle’s unique link to Grand Performances began as a performer when in June 1996, she graced the stage as part of Desborde, a music group she cofounded. The concert, recorded live, was called Tribute Concert to Violeta Parra. Mari has the rare distinction of being associated with the organization as a performer, a patron and supporter, and now as Grand Performances’ Executive Director.
“I’m thrilled to be building on the legacy of founding Executive Director Michael Alexander, working with Grand Performances to expand the scope and reach of our programming and presenting the most diverse array of artistic voices possible,” said Ms. Riddle. “I look forward to partnering with the Board and Staff at Grand Performances, talking with our constituents and connecting even more people to the eclectic and inspirational work of this outstanding organization.”
MORE ON GRAND PERFORMANCES: Celebrating its 31st year, Grand Performances’ mission is to inspire community, celebrate diversity, and unite Los Angeles through free access to global performing arts. Hailed as the “Best Free Outdoor Summer Concert Series” by Los Angeles Magazine and called “a grand gift to the public… democracy in musical action” by the Los Angeles Times, Grand Performances presents high-quality music, dance, theater, and more during the summer at the breathtaking California Plaza in the heart of Downtown as well as at other venues throughout the year including the Los Angeles State Historic Park and LAX.
