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Experienced arts and nonprofit leader Blair Trunzo joins the organization to lead operations, programming and community engagement.

Blair Trunzo

The Canonsburg Educational and Cultural Institute (CECI) has appointed Blair Trunzo as the inaugural Managing Director of the Canon Theatre, marking a major milestone as the organization builds momentum toward the anticipated fall 2026 opening of one of the region's newest destinations for live entertainment and community engagement.

The appointment represents the next step in CECI's vision to transform the historic theatre into a vibrant destination for live entertainment, arts education and community gatherings. As Managing Director, Trunzo will oversee the theatre's operations, programming, strategic partnerships and audience development while helping prepare the venue for its highly anticipated opening.

"Hiring our inaugural Managing Director is another major milestone as we move from vision to reality. Blair brings an exceptional combination of artistic talent, nonprofit leadership, operational experience and community-minded vision," said Suzanne Malausky, CECI Board Member and Human Resources Committee Chair. "His passion for creating meaningful experiences through the performing arts made him the ideal person to guide the Canon Theatre into its next chapter."

As Managing Director, Trunzo will lead the theatre's day-to-day operations while working with the CECI Board to establish programming, cultivate community partnerships, and prepare for the Canon Theatre's inaugural season.

Trunzo is a classically trained musical theatre performer and nonprofit arts management professional with more than 20 years of experience in performance, performing arts education, nonprofit executive leadership, venue operations, facility management and community engagement.

His career began on the stage, performing with the Pittsburgh Savoyard and Stage 62 before appearing in New York City productions directed by Tony Award-winning artists and on national tours, including Thomas & Friends, which toured through Washington County in 2004.

He later transitioned into nonprofit leadership at the Boys & Girls Club of Queens in Long Island City, where he advanced from Director of Performing Arts to Executive Director. During his tenure, he strengthened the organization's long-term sustainability through successful grant funding initiatives and the development of strong community partnerships.

After returning to Western Pennsylvania, Trunzo managed auxiliary and performing arts residency programs at Shady Side Academy, expanding opportunities through the Hillman Center for Performing Arts and the McKnight Hockey Center while serving educational and youth organizations throughout the region.

A graduate of South Fayette High School, Trunzo studied Musical Theatre Performance at the American Musical and Dramatic Academy Conservatory in New York City. He holds a Bachelor of Arts from California University of Pennsylvania, a Master of Arts in Industrial Organizational Psychology from Touro College and a certificate in Generative Artificial Intelligence from Johns Hopkins University.

"Every chapter of my career has prepared me for this moment," said Trunzo. "I've had the privilege of performing on stage, leading nonprofit organizations and creating opportunities for young people through the arts. Now, returning to the area where my journey began, I have the opportunity to help build a theatre that will inspire audiences, support artists and strengthen the cultural life of our region. That is both humbling and incredibly exciting.

I am honored to join CECI at such an exciting moment in the organization's history. The Canon Theatre is more than a beautifully restored performance venue—it is a place where the community will come together to experience extraordinary entertainment, celebrate special occasions, inspire young artists and create lasting memories.” Trunzo added, “I look forward to working alongside the Board, our community partners, sponsors and volunteers to establish the Canon Theatre as a destination that reflects the pride, spirit and sense of community that define Canonsburg."

As the inaugural Managing Director, Trunzo will begin building relationships with artists, promoters, educators, community organizations, sponsors and volunteers while helping shape the theatre's programming, operations and guest experience.

"This theatre has always been about bringing people together," said Tony Colaizzo, CECI Board President and local business owner. “Today, we're welcoming Blair to the CECI family, but we're also inviting our entire community to join us in bringing the Canon Theatre to life. Together, we'll create a place that inspires, entertains and serves our region for generations. The best chapters of the Canon Theatre are still ahead of us."

Additional project announcements, including new partnerships and community investments, will be shared as CECI continues advancing the Canon Theatre and broader cultural campus.

As preparations continue, CECI invites residents, businesses, volunteers, sponsors and community partners to become part of the next chapter of the Canon Theatre. Whether by attending performances, volunteering, sponsoring programs or simply sharing in the excitement, everyone has a role to play in creating a destination that celebrates the arts, strengthens community connections and enriches our region for generations to come. Follow our progress at goceci.org.

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