In a deeply insightful episode of the ArtiGras Podcast, host Sarah Lapierre sat down with Andrew Kato, the Chief Executive and Producing Artistic Director of the Maltz Jupiter Theatre, to pull back the curtain on his extraordinary journey and the cultural landmark he leads. Their conversation illuminated the vision, the community spirit, and the $50+ million expansion that have cemented the Maltz as a national-caliber regional theater.

A Legacy Born Backstage

Andrew Kato’s connection to the theater is lifelong, literally beginning where the Maltz now stands. Growing up in Jupiter, he worked at the site’s original Burt Reynolds Dinner Theatre, where his natural curiosity for "how things were made" was ignited.

From Waiter to Producer: His demeanor—un-starstruck and focused—served him well. He later spent 13 years as a producer for the Tony Awards, a role he secured by simply showing up every day and manifesting his desire to be there. This experience instilled in him the power of a bold vision and a relentless work ethic.
The First Handshake: When Kato returned to Jupiter, the theater was struggling. His first act was a simple yet profound gesture: standing at the front door to shake every guest’s hand, signaling a commitment to community and care that helped rebuild trust.

The $50M+ Vision: A Community Center

The recent, massive expansion of the Maltz Jupiter Theatre was based on a clear strategic plan, transforming the facility from a struggling structure into a thriving cultural hub:

Broadway-Scale Production: The stage was expanded to allow the Maltz to qualify for and develop pre-Broadway shows and national tours.
Doubling Education: The Goldner Conservatory at the Roe Green Education Center was doubled in size (to 8,500 square feet) to accommodate demand and foster the next generation of performers.
Diversifying Artistry: The creation of the Island Theater, a 199-seat flexible black box space, allows the Maltz to produce intimate dramas, cabaret, magic, and aerial shows, broadening its artistic portfolio beyond large musicals.

Kato emphasizes that his mission is to make the theater a community center. This is achieved through outreach like inviting the Whole Vibes program (for children on the spectrum) and hosting events like Communitrees, where 20 local nonprofits decorate holiday trees to raise funds and awareness.

The Philosophy: "Talented and Kind"

Andrew Kato’s leadership philosophy is nationally recognized and branded within the organization: "Talented and Kind."

He expects excellence from his large team—which includes 55 full-time employees, 100 visiting artists, and 400 dedicated volunteers—but he champions kindness as an equally critical value. This philosophy ensures that even the most meticulous aspects of the Maltz experience, from the seamlessly produced shows (which are planned up to 16 months in advance) to the personalized customer service, are delivered with a spirit of welcoming and belonging.

Andrew Kato's Wisdom for Creatives

For anyone dreaming of working in the arts, Kato’s advice is clear:

Manifest Your Dream: "People limit themselves to what they really can have in life... stop it right now. Get it, put it in action at any age."
Kindness is Never Wasted: A simple "thank you" and acknowledgment of effort goes a long way. He encourages telling others about compliments you hear, as "that glow of recognition" is a powerful force for community goodness.

The best way to support the Maltz Jupiter Theatre is to simply show up.

Website: jupitertheatre.org
Box Office: 561-575-2223
Location: 1000 East Indiantown Road, Jupiter, FL 33477 (Look for the beautiful parking lot and music playing—it looks like a hotel!)