Michael Hardy Management is an arts management consulting practice providing a variety of executive and planning services for organizations contemplating new projects or experiencing challenges. We undertake projects as the primary consultant or as part of a team with other consulting firms specializing in architecture, theatre design, construction management, or executive search. We offer the practical perspective gained from years of actual executive experience in the arts.
Hardy has served as the chief executive officer of non-profit arts organizations for over 30 years in addition to his consulting work and volunteer services to the field. He has directed three major performing arts centers, an international association with members from 50 countries and one of the nation’s largest historic preservation/adaptive re-use projects. Recognized as an incisive and effective leader, Hardy has managed highly complex building projects, organized more than a dozen international arts conferences, worked closely with top elected officials in multiple states and led organizations through major transitions. He has been unusually effective in forging consensus among diverse stakeholders and agendas and building strong effective institutions. (full résumé)
Current Projects:
- Institute of Outdoor Drama, East Carolina University. As director of the Institute, Hardy manages the affairs of this service organization to outdoor theatres in North America, now expanding internationally. In addition, he teaches an honors course for the University’s School of Theatre. He remains available for selected outside consulting projects.
- Arts and Humanities Center, Cape Fear Community College. As consultant to the College, Hardy is currently preparing the operational and business plans for the new Center due to open in 2014. The facility includes a 1500 seat multi-purpose auditorium, studio theatre and classrooms.
Recent Assignments:
- The Lost Colony Outdoor Drama. CEO and General Manager of America’s first symphonic outdoor drama, founded 75 years ago. Produced the 2011 season, and developed the plans to convert a rehearsal building to a new indoor theatre and renovate five apartment buildings utilized by the show’s company.
- Lorraine Kimsa Theatre for Young People, Toronto. Design and construction feasibility study to establish new Arts Centre for Learning while expanding current historic home. Project management, business plan, architectural and construction feasibility and architect selection.
- Royal Conservatory of Music, Toronto. Business plan and operating policies to open the new Koerner Hall, recruit and hire staff, and integrate the Centre’s operations within the overall organization. The new hall opened to acclaim in September 2009.
