A new face has taken over the Landmark on Main Street, as the organization’s board of directors named Richard Mayer as executive director.
Mayer, who was named the 2013 Theatre Person of the Year by the New Orleans Times-Picayune, touted Landmark for its reputation throughout the North Shore and said he looks forward to meeting members of the community during his tenure.
“Landmark has such a strong reputation for live performance,” he said. “I’m really looking forward to getting to know the people of Port Washington and surrounding communities.”
“Richard brings a wide array of talents which will benefit Landmark and our community,” Marlene Munnelly, chair of Landmark’s Executive Director Search Committee, said. “We are excited for this next chapter.”
Most of Mayer’s work in the theater has been in New Orleans, where he served as an artistic director, executive director and associate producer. Mayer graduated from Tulane University in 2009 with a Bachelor of Arts in Theater and Dance. Earlier this year, Mayer earned a Master of Arts from Columbia University.
Mayer simultaneously oversaw teams at three venues as associate producer of the Faux/Real Festival of the Arts in New Orleans. Under his supervision, the teams were able to hold 40 events over the span of just five days. Mayer also coordinated the Music in The Mountains Festival’s annual gala in Colorado.
His tenure as Landmark’s executive director begins on the heels of Laura Mogul’s retirement announcement earlier this year. Mogul was hired as the venue’s executive director in 2015. Under Mogul’s tenure, the organization helped establish relationships between Landmark and the Port Washington Library, Transition Town Port Washington, the Sousa Bandshell and Red Stocking Review.
“I love Landmark – its mission, our connection to the community, the artists we attract and are happy to return – and I know I’m not alone,” Mogul said in May.
“Laura Mogul’s contributions to Landmark cannot be underestimated. Her work ethic, knowledge and dedication to Landmark are quite remarkable and much appreciated,” said Kathy Coley, co-president of Landmark’s board.
Landmark, which reopened its doors this year after the coronavirus pandemic forced them to close, offers a variety of entertainment performances, community events and educational seminars for people of all ages.
While the pandemic forced the venue to shut temporarily, the organization’s board has been busy finding amenities to add for its patrons.
The board has been tasked with reimagining the venue, with removable seats, a bar in the back and upgrades to the flooring and acoustics under consideration.
