Coy Middlebrook Named Wallis Artistic Director
The Beverly Hills performing arts institution has appointed the longtime veteran to lead its artistic programming.
Updated on Sept. 25, 2026 in Arts Theater — General
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The Wallis Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts has officially named Coy Middlebrook as its new artistic director. Middlebrook, who has been associated with the center since 2014, will oversee all public performances and education programs.
Why it matters
The appointment brings a familiar leader into a top role at the Beverly Hills venue, providing continuity as the institution manages its diverse programming and educational outreach. Middlebrook will report directly to the center's executive director and CEO.
The Wallis Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts features the 500-seat Bram Goldsmith Theater and the 150-seat Lovelace Studio Theater. The venue originally opened its doors to the public in 2013.
The players
Coy Middlebrook
He is the newly appointed artistic director of The Wallis Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts who previously served as the center's acting chief programming officer.
Robert van Leer
He is the former executive director and CEO of The Wallis who concluded his tenure with the organization in the spring of 2026.
The Wallis Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts
This Beverly Hills venue serves as a cultural hub for theater, dance, and music performances while hosting extensive community education programs.
The details
Middlebrook previously served as the center's acting chief programming officer. He has been deeply integrated into the facility's operations since moving to Los Angeles in 2014.
Timeline
The Wallis Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts opened in 2013.
Middlebrook moved to Los Angeles in 2014.
Former CEO Robert van Leer departed in spring 2026.
Coy Middlebrook was named artistic director in September 2026.
Industry Dynamics
This appointment follows a pattern set by the 2026 leadership transition at The Wallis regarding arts administration succession. It reflects a broader industry trend of promoting internal veterans to provide stability in high-level programming roles.
Patrons can expect continued engagement through the center's various education and performance initiatives. The leadership change ensures that the scheduling of events in the Bram Goldsmith and Lovelace theaters remains managed by someone with extensive local institutional knowledge.
The takeaway
Middlebrook's promotion signifies a commitment to maintaining existing programming quality at The Wallis. Residents and regular attendees should look for updates on future season lineups as the new artistic director settles into his role.
Further reading
For more news on local productions and institutional updates, visit the Arts Theater — General section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by My News LA.
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