Gena Buhler

As the head of our Strategy & Operations division, Gena finds that great solutions start with a holistic understanding of needs and a lot of listening. With over 20 years’ history as a venue executive and experience in event production, venue management, operational logistics, artistic program development, and relationship-building for critical partnerships, she knows what it takes to turn vision into reality.

Gena brings her expertise to a range of organizational needs, including project visioning, needs assessments, feasibility studies, and business planning. Her goal is to help create spaces that are vibrant and welcoming, fit for purpose, and sustainably operated. As a former venue manager and industry executive, she understands the opportunities and challenges of operating a successful and thriving space.

Prior to Theatre Projects, Gena worked as the Executive & Artistic Director of Wheeler Opera House (Aspen, CO) and as the Theatre Director of Vilar Performing Arts Center (Beaver Creek, CO). She’s also worked in New York as an agent for The Road Company (Broadway touring) and IMG Artists (music and attractions), and she started her career in festival management as an associate with the Ann Arbor Summer Festival. Gena has completed master’s candidate coursework through New York University’s Performing Arts Administration program and received her BFA in Dance from University of Michigan.

Equally as passionate about thought leadership and convening events that inspire dialogue, Gena co-founded and continues to act as director of operations for the Colorado Energy & Water Institute producing two annual conferences for their membership in venues across Colorado.