Walton Arts Center announced Monday that Brian Crowne has been named vice president of Walmart AMP.
Crowne will continue to be responsible for all operations of the Walmart AMP including artist booking, third party rentals, site operations and management. He will also serve on the Walton Arts Center's executive committee.
"Brian’s experience and leadership in the contemporary music field are unmatched in the region," said Peter B. Lane, president and CEO of Walton Arts Center. "We are excited to see Brian continue to grow his role at the Walmart AMP, northwest Arkansas' premier outdoor entertainment venue."
Walton Arts Center purchased the AMP from Crowne in February 2011 with the goal of expanding arts and entertainment and serving a broader audience. Crowne became general manager of Walmart AMP and was critical in building the new Walmart AMP in 2014 and expanding its operations, the arts center said.
Walmart AMP has seen attendance rise from under 20,000 patrons in 2011 to a record 147,000 patrons in 2015. The venue has hosted stars including Willie Nelson, Allison Kraus, Santana, and sold-out shows of Blake Shelton, Tim McGraw, Dave Matthews Band and Kenny Chesney.
