Jeffrey Haydon: President and CEO Ravinia Festival

In this episode, iHearMedia Chicago Region President Adam Kurtz sits down with Jeffrey Haydon, the President and CEO of the Ravinia Festival, the oldest outdoor music festival in the United States. Together, they explore the dynamic intersection of tradition and innovation in the performing arts.

Jeffrey shares insights into his journey from arts management to helming one of the nation's most iconic cultural institutions. From programming world-class performances to navigating the evolving expectations of modern audiences, he discusses the challenges and opportunities of leading a legacy organization into the future.Listeners will hear about Ravinia’s commitment to community engagement, music education, and diversity, as well as the behind-the-scenes strategy that keeps the festival thriving season after season.

Whether you're a fan of the arts, an aspiring cultural leader, or simply curious about what it takes to sustain a century-old institution, this conversation offers a compelling look at creativity, leadership, and the power of live music.