OWENSBORO, Ky. (WEHT) — Earlier this year, Owensboro’s RiverPark Center made the decision to partner with the Oakview Group, and now they’ve chosen a new General Manager. The RiverPark Center is welcoming Chris Patterson into the role.
Officials say the decision was made to help further the venue as a top destination for arts and entertainment. Patterson says his love for music began at a young age. If it were up to him, he’d be performing on stage. Ironically, he says it was his lack of music ability has led him to work with some of the world’s greatest performers including Janet Jackson, Lynyrd Skynyrd and Ray Charles.
Henderson businesses donate to Lucy Nash’s family Patterson may be new to the city, but a resume embedded with 30 years of experience inidcates he’s certainly no stranger to the world of entertainment.
Patterson comes from Pittsburgh, Kan. where he served as general manager of Pittsburgh Memorial Stadium. He’s spearheaded over 400 events annually while overseeing the operations of a 1.600 seat theater and a 10,000 sq. ft. convention center.
He says his interest in the RiverPark Center began with a desire to work with the Oakview group, but the center’s passionate board members affirmed the decision to take the role.
“I had heard great things about them and read great things about them. I think they’re doing fantastic things in the industry…both in terms of venue management as well as the fan experience. I was excited about that opportunity. When I came to Owensboro, it was amazing to drive over the bridge for the first time and see the riverfront. It was just a wow moment for me,” says Patterson.
He’s worked every facet of the industry including management, accounting and merchandising. Over the course of 3 decades, he’s developed an expansive network dating all the way back to his time in college.
“I had the privilege of working with Bob Hope, George Burns and Ray Charles for parents’ weekend. When I graduated, I went on the road with Janet Jackson on Rhythm Nation for six weeks. I had the privilege of working with Sinéad O’Connor, Deep Purple, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Luther Vandross, Mary J. Blige,” says Patterson.
Once he’s more acclimated, Patterson says he’s excited to stumble into organic conversations with residents and learn more about what the community wants to see more of.
“Whether it’s picking up dry cleaning or food or anything like that. People inevitably have a connection to the building, and they’re always happy to share and offer their opinions on what they’d like to see there,” says Patterson.
Patterson says there will likely be a Meet the GM event soon to get the ball rolling on connecting with the community and their love for live performance.
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