Get to Know…Terry D. Loftis of TACA

Photography by Beau Bumpas

Explain The Arts Community Alliance’s mission and how you got involved. 

Our mission is to support excellence and impact in the arts through grant-making, capacity building, and thought leadership. Grants are the cornerstone of our mission, and each year, we make grants to deserving arts organizations and artists. Capacity building means outreach and educational support for Dallas arts organizations to help them thrive and reach new audiences. Through thought leadership, we serve as a voice for the arts community, a convener and platform for ideas and expression. 

I always admired this organization and was thrilled when I was given the opportunity to lead the organization last October.

Tell us a little about yourself and your background.

I am a Dallas native, and spent the majority of my career in marketing and advertising. I operated my own agency for nearly 15 years, Verve Communications Group, and later served as President of Eisenberg and Associates. In addition to my career in marketing, I began working on Broadway as a co-producer in 2013. In 2015, I was nominated for a Tony Award as a co-producer on “The Visit” starring Broadway legend Chita Rivera. In 2017, I was a co-producer on the musical “Bandstand”, which received Tony awards for best choreography and orchestration. “Bandstand” was directed by three-time Tony winner Andy Blankenbuehler (“Hamilton” and “In the Heights”). One of Bandstand’s lead producer’s was Dallas’ own Roger Horchow who recently passed away.

Prior to joining TACA, I was Vice President of Investor Development for the Broadway Strategic Return Fund, a New York-based investment firm dedicated to funding Broadway shows and touring companies.

What makes TACA events so special to the Dallas community? 

TACA produces two signature special events, the Silver Cup Award Luncheon and Party on the Green, to help raise funds and introduce new people to our mission of supporting arts and culture in North Texas. Our events provide an opportunity for individuals, corporations, and foundations to support TACA while being a part of one of the region’s most renowned experiences.

Celebrated annually, the TACA Silver Cup Award recognizes two individuals for their outstanding volunteer leadership and contributions to the arts in Dallas. Earlier this year, we honored community and business leader Matrice Ellis-Kirk and former Dallas Mayor Mike Rawlings.

Taking place in the heart of the Dallas Arts District, TACA Lexus Party on the Green is held in the fall and brings together celebrated culinary and artistic talent for an elegantly casual evening benefiting our arts and cultural community.

What do you enjoy the most about being a part of TACA? 

First and foremost, I enjoy raising money for the vast array of cultural arts organizations across Dallas. It is extremely rewarding and extremely challenging, especially during this era of COVID-19. Second, I enjoy supporting arts organizations by promoting and attending their programming. Last, is the relationship-building and developing partnerships with our donors and my board of directors.

How does support from community partners like Highland Park Village help TACA have a greater impact?

TACA has been at the forefront of arts funding in Dallas for over 50 years, impacting arts organizations and hundreds of performing and visual artists each year. Support from Highland Park Village and other community partners helps make this success possible.

Now more than ever, supporting TACA is imperative for arts and culture in North Texas to keep thriving. Our growing investment in the arts translates into impactful community initiatives and more opportunities for artists and audiences to connect – all making Dallas a great place to live and work.

What are some ways people in North Texas can get involved with TACA?

Become an Arts Ambassador! The TACA Arts Ambassadors annual giving program plays an essential role in supporting the arts and cultural community in North Texas. With your gift, you become part of our community alliance while enjoying a wide array of benefits throughout the year.

Or, become a member of our Founders Circle – a critical group of supporters committed to help TACA support a rich tapestry of arts and cultural opportunities in the Dallas community.

Businesses can get involved, too, by becoming a Corporate Partner member or sponsor one of our signature events. For more information on ways to get involved, check out https://taca-arts.org/make-a-difference/.

Where would we most likely find you in Highland Park Village?

Hands down, Park House! I became a member earlier this year and spend a lot of time at Park House entertaining donors and my friends.

Highland Park Village is proud to spotlight our very own dynamic personalities and community partners in the Village Voices series. Get to know our past features.