Matt Schliesman announced yesterday that he will retire as Executive Director of the Capitol Civic Center in Manitowoc this summer.
Schliesman began his nearly decade long tenure in December of 2010 wanting to come back home-per se after residing in Los Angeles. He told us he was raised in Racine, and while living in LA, would always come back to Wisconsin on vacation. “I love Wisconsin,” he stated. “I was at a point in my life where it was time for a new chapter, and I wanted to move back to Wisconsin. I’m so glad it all worked out.”
Under Schliesman’s leadership, the Capitol Civic Center underwent two major renovations, the first was in 2013 and the most recent was completed last year. When asked why these upgrades were important, Schliesman said that they “wanted to get this 100-year-old theater ready for the next 100 years.” The improvements focused on guest comfortability, and Matt thanked the community for their support.
Schliesman explained why he decided to retire, stating “It’s been a very dynamic, consuming, rewarding 10 years, and I think it’s time for a little change of pace.”
Schliesman plans on stepping down this summer-but when? “There are some projects here I want to finish up,” he explained. “They are looking for my successor, and all of these things kind of need to fall into place.”
He also tells SeehaferNews.com “I came here for an exciting and challenging job in an exquisite historic theatre, which I found but I also found a new hometown. I’ll look forward to enjoying it for many years to come.”
Board President Tom Angst stated “The Board thanks Matt for his decade long service to the Capital Civic Center-particularly the leadership he provided to both the organization and the performing arts community at large. Matt polished the Capitol Civic Center into the ‘Shining Jewel of the Lakeshore’ that we can all be very proud of.”
