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Bobby Asher
Director, Duke Performances
Professional Background
Bobby Asher is an influential figure in the arts and culture sector, currently serving as the Director of Programming at the International Festival of Arts & Ideas in New Haven. With an impressive portfolio that showcases his dedication to advancing the arts, Bobby is committed to creating a top-tier festival that presents world-class artists, thinkers, and leaders. His leadership not only seeks to attract a wide and diverse audience but also aims to celebrate community and promote economic development through the power of artistic expression.
Previously, Bobby refined his skills and expanded his impact as the Director of Duke Performances at Duke University. In his role at Duke, he managed an array of artistic initiatives, enhancing the university's reputation for hosting quality performances and educational experiences that resonate with diverse communities. His career has been characterized by a consistent commitment to bringing the arts to the forefront of community engagement and development.
Bobby also played a pivotal role at the Clarice Smith Performing Arts Center, where he held several key positions, including Director of Programming and Senior Associate Director of the Artist Partner Program. In these roles, he notably contributed to the curation and development of innovative artistic programs that connected audiences with exceptional artists, all while fostering a vibrant cultural atmosphere.
Bobby began his journey in the arts as the Managing & Artistic Director at Kennesaw State University. His foundational experiences in this role enabled him to cultivate his passion for the arts and shaped his vision for community-based artistic initiatives.
Education and Achievements
Bobby Asher's educational background is rich and diverse, encompassing both the sciences and the arts. He holds a Master of Science in Marketing/Marketing Management from the University of Maryland University College, which equipped him with valuable skills in programming, audience development, and strategic marketing. This unique blend of education has allowed Bobby to not only understand the artistic landscape but also effectively promote and market artistic initiatives.
Additionally, Bobby earned his Bachelor of Arts in Music from Northeastern State University, further grounding him in the essential elements of artistic expression and appreciation. This dual-focus education has served him well in his career, as it enables him to engage with artists, audiences, and educational institutions from multiple perspectives..
Notable Achievements
Throughout his career, Bobby Asher has achieved numerous accolades in the performing arts realm. As Director of Programming at the International Festival of Arts & Ideas, he innovated programming that has garnered national attention and drew in a multitude of festival-goers from various backgrounds.
His previous work at the Clarice Smith Performing Arts Center included the successful launch and development of artistic partnerships that expanded educational programs and significantly increased community involvement and audience engagement. Under his leadership, Duke Performances has witnessed a dynamic transformation, showcasing a diverse range of performances that resonate with university students and the broader Durham community.
Bobby's profound understanding of audience dynamics, compelling programming, and community-centered initiatives positions him as a leading figure in the arts and a champion for cultural enrichment. His work not only recognizes the importance of artistic experiences but also emphasizes the vital role they play in vibrant community development. With a long-term vision driving his initiatives, Bobby Asher remains a pivotal player in advancing the arts and enriching lives through cultural engagement.
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