Dacquiri Baptiste

About Dacquiri Baptiste

I am a performing arts executive and operations leader passionate about creating transformative cultural experiences that connect communities, preserve history, and drive organizational growth. As Vice President & Chief Operations Officer of the Orpheum Theatre Group in Memphis, I oversee two distinct venues—our historic 2,300-seat Orpheum Theatre and the contemporary Halloran Centre—while leading operations, facilities, concessions, security, capital projects, and long-range campus planning. My career in the performing arts spans more than two decades and reflects a steady progression from front-of-house and production roles to executive leadership. Early in my journey, I gained hands-on experience in guest services, artist relations, and stage operations—skills that grounded my understanding of what it takes to create seamless live performance experiences. As I advanced into senior management positions with major theaters and festivals, I expanded my expertise to include financial stewardship, capital project planning, and building high-performing teams. At the Orpheum, I’ve guided multimillion-dollar renovations, advanced ADA accessibility, and championed technology, energy efficiency, and sustainability initiatives to ensure our theaters thrive for the next 100 years. My leadership style blends strategic vision with hands-on operational excellence—whether introducing new F&B models, enhancing volunteer programs, or delivering complex capital projects on time and on budget. Beyond my role at the Orpheum, I serve as Chair of the International Association of Venue Managers (IAVM) Performing Arts Committee and is a proud member of The Broadway League, contributing to national conversations on the future of live theater. I also serve on nonprofit boards including Collage Dance Collective and Downtown Memphis Commission. At the heart of my leadership is a belief that performing arts venues are more than stages—they are cultural beacons, economic drivers, and places where people find joy, belonging, and inspiration. I am committed to building teams, spaces, and partnerships that honor this mission while charting bold new futures.

Experience

1. Vice President COO

   Orpheum Theatre Group

   Jun 2019 — Present · Memphis, TN