Andrew Cannata Will Become Executive Director of Tex-Arts, Lakeway

 

Andrew Cannata will become Tex-Arts Lakeways's new  executive director, effective July 2026. Cannata succeeds Sandy Cox, whose leadership guide the nonprofit through one of the most transformative periods in its history, including the acquisition, renovation, and opening of TexARTS' permanent home forprofessional theatre, arts education, and community events.

Cannata brings extensive experience in arts administration, nonprofit leadership, performance, and theatrical production. He previously served as executive artisticdirector of Zilker Summer Musical and founded Magnolia Musical Theatre, a nonprofit producing organization known for large-scale musical productions in the Hill Country Galleria. Under his leadership, Magnolia Musical Theatre staged productions including Beauty and the Beast, Footloose, and The SpongeBob Musical.

“TexARTS is a central Texas gem, and I am honored to lead us into our next stage,” says Cannata. “We may be a small local theatre, but we have so much to give. From summer camps, to musical theatre to professional Broadway shows, TexARTS is home to a world of imagination. As we toast to twenty years of success, we enter a new era for TexARTS where our big dreams can become reality with the help of our community supporters and patrons.”

Audiences may arecognize Cannata from performances on the TexARTS stage, including his roles as Buddy in Elf the Musical and Orin Scrivello in Little Shop of Horrors.

Over the past several years, TexARTS has experienced significant growth, expanding itsprogramming and community reach while establishing a permanent home for its professional theatre productions, educational academy, and special events. Theorganization has also earned widespread recognition for artistic excellence, receiving nominations and awards within Austin's performing arts community.