A Dynamic & Diverse Venue
The Ames Center, formerly known as Burnsville Performing Arts Center, opened in January 2009. The venue features two theaters: the larger Masquerade Dance Theater and the intimate Black Box Theater. The Lobby is an impressive two-story glass structure offering sweeping views of Nicollet Commons Park, the Minnesota River Valley, and the Minneapolis Skyline. The Ames Center hosts a variety of presentations, including cultural events, dramas, comedies, dance performances, and musical acts from both local arts organizations and national touring artists.
The Masquerade Dance Theater, the largest in the complex, boasts a seating capacity of 1,014 (759 Orchestra and 255 Balcony). Beautifully designed, it features red, orange, and green seats, with a stage opening adorned in gold. Outfitted with state-of-the-art sound and lighting systems, the theater ensures an exceptional experience. Accessibility is provided through ground and second-level atrium lobbies and via elevator. The stage measures 45 feet deep by 100 feet wide, with a 48-foot proscenium opening, offering superb acoustics and sightlines for all patrons.
Adjacent to the Star Dressing Room in the backstage area, the green room offers a secluded space for smaller gatherings. This room, perfect for private Meet and Greet activities or as a VIP guest amenity, features an adjacent entrance area and is both carpeted and well-lit.
Leading By Example/ Awards Achieved
2024 Sun Reader’s Choice Award – Best Place to Hear Live Music
Metrics
Seats
Events per year (combined)
Annual Visitors
Sq Foot Rehearsal Room
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 Teen USA & Miss USA (Minnesota/ Iowa)
Bravo National Dance Talent Competition
Dakota Valley Symphony & Chorus Young Artist Concerts
Burnsville Rotary
Dance Championships & Competitions
Veteran Tickets Foundation
Burnsville Chamber of Commerce
Events Hosted
Masquerade Dance Company
Twin Cities Ballet
Poe – A Rock Musical
One Night of Queen
Masters of Illusion
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 Masquerade Theatre Team!
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