A Versatile Performance Space for Smaller Productions

The Ames Center, formerly known as Burnsville Performing Arts Center, opened in January 2009. The venue features two theaters: the 1,014-seat Masquerade Dance Theater and the intimate 150-seat Black Box Theater. The Black Box Theater, situated on the ground floor, offers a completely open and versatile space adaptable to any performance setup. The room is equipped with sound and lighting instruments and can be curtained as needed. Risers are available to create a traditional theater-style setting. This intimate venue is perfect for smaller productions and event space needs.

The mission of the Ames Center is to foster the growth, development, and appreciation of the performing arts through a diverse range of cultural, entertainment, and artistic activities. It serves as a home for the community's major performing arts groups and as a community center for visual arts, business, and educational meetings. The center also contributes to the economic vitality of Burnsville and the surrounding region by hosting a broad spectrum of events, thereby supporting the creation of a vibrant and active downtown area.

 

Leading By Example/ Awards Achieved

2024 Sun Reader’s Choice Award – Best Place to Hear Live Music

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Metrics
Seats
Events per year (combined)
Sq Foot Rehearsal Room
Annual Visitors (combined)

Services

Pre-Opening & Construction

Full-Service Facility Management

Operations

Accounting & Financial Services

Event Booking & Sales

Event Management and Operation

Food & Beverage Operations

Venue Branding & Marketing

Human Resources

Environmental Stewardship

Emergency Planning & Security

Community Engagement

Miss USA & Miss Teen USA (Minnesota/ Iowa)

Bravo National Dance Talent Competition

Dakota Valley Symphony & Chorus Young Artist Concerts

Burnsville Rotary

Veteran Tickets Foundation

Burnsville Chamber of Commerce

Events Hosted

Twin Cities Ballet

Masquerade Dance Company

Masters of Illusion

The Sound of Simon and Garfunkel

Poe – A Rock Musical

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Executive Director

Brian Luther

Brian Luther brings over 25 years of leadership and venue management expertise to the VenuWorks team. With a proven background in managing Performing Arts Centers and Arenas across multiple Midwest markets, Brian’s strategic vision and ability to foster growth have set him apart in the industry.

Since becoming the Executive Director of the Ames Center in 2021, Brian has played an instrumental role in enhancing the venue’s programming and increasing event revenues. Under his guidance, the VenuWorks team in Burnsville has consistently exceeded budget expectations, solidifying the Ames Center as a leading, sustainable Performing Arts Center in the Minneapolis/St. Paul market. His collaborative approach and foresight have positioned the Ames Center as a vibrant hub for cultural and economic activity.

Beyond his professional achievements, Brian is deeply committed to the Burnsville community. He serves on the Board of Directors for both Experience Burnsville and the Burnsville Chamber of Commerce, contributing his expertise to local initiatives and fostering strong community relationships.

Renowned for his skillset in programming, budget and financial management, and community engagement, Brian partners effectively with the City of Burnsville to ensure the Ames Center remains a source of pride and enrichment for the community it serves.

Contact Brian Luther and the Ames Center Black Box Theatre team!

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