Art Inspires. Business Thrives.

Tuesday, April 14, 2026

The Courtyard Theater, 1509 H Ave, Plano, TX 75074 • Map
Reception at 5:15 p.m., Program at 6:00 p.m.

Co-sponsored by Collaborative Arts of Plano and the Plano Chamber of Commerce.

State of the Arts brings together leaders from the arts, business, and civic sectors to explore how creativity helps shape a stronger, more connected Plano.

RSVP

State of the Arts is a free event, open to the public. Your RSVP is requested.

An Evening with Keynote Speaker Kellyn Smith Kenny

AT&T’s Chief Marketing & Growth Officer will share insights on the powerful link between creativity, innovation, and economic growth.

In her role as Chief Marketing & Growth Officer at AT&T, she brings deep experience at the intersection of brand, innovation, and leadership, and will speak to the ways creativity helps shape not only culture, but the long-term vitality of a city.

Remarks from
Mayor John B. Muns

Mayor Muns will share remarks during the program, reflecting his support for the arts and the important role they play in helping Plano remain a vibrant and connected community.

Annual Updates From Plano’s Arts Leaders

Representing visual art, music, dance, theater, and cultural venues, five local arts leaders will share a year-in-review of progress, impact, and what’s ahead for Plano’s creative community.

  • Portrait of Kathy Chamberlain

    Kathy Chamberlain

    Founder and Artistic Director, Chamberlain Ballet

  • Portrait of Suzy Jones

    Suzy Jones

    Executive Director, ArtCentre of Plano

  • Portrait of Greg Patterson

    Greg Patterson

    President and CEO, Plano Symphony Orchestra

  • Portratt of Darrell Rodenbaugh

    Darrell Rodenbaugh

    CEO, North Texas Performing Arts

  • Portrait of Dollie Thomas

    Dollie Thomas

    Executive Director, Plano African American Museum

Panel Discussion:
A Conversation on Creativity and Economic Growth

Moderated by Frank Turner

Featuring voices from across Plano’s business and community landscape, this panel will explore the ideas, partnerships, and shared momentum that connect the arts to the city’s broader success.

  • A smiling woman with long wavy hair wearing a black top against a neutral background.

    Russ Burch

    Vice President, Frost Bank; Vice Chair Plano Chamber of Commerce

  • A person smiling outdoors, wearing a red jacket and pearl necklace with a blurred background of a brick building.

    David Downs

    Former Chair of the Plano Chamber of Commerce; former member of the Plano City Council; business leader

  • Portrait of Alyssa High

    Alyssa High

    Editor, Plano Magazine

  • Elderly woman with red hair and purple necklace standing by a fence, smiling.

    Mary Jo Dean

    Director of Community Relations, Texas Health Resources

Who should attend?

Whether you’re an artist, educator, student, donor, business leader, or simply arts-curious, State of the Arts is for anyone who wants to understand, and strengthen, Plano’s creative community.

RSVP Today

Please join us and be part of this inspiring evening that celebrates Plano's rich artistic legacy and its exciting future.

Silhouette of a dancer leaping with arms and legs extended, in blue.
Orange silhouette of a conductor with a baton
Green silhouette of a person striking a pose with raised hands
Silhouette of a seated figure painting

Courtyard Theater,
1509 H Ave., Plano, TX 75074

A free event open to the public. Map.