Starlight Welcomes New Leaders
Starlight is excited to announce the addition of two executive level roles to the historic theatre’s leadership team. Becky Martin joins as Chief Guest Experience Officer with a commitment to ensure every visit feels welcoming, memorable, and exceptional for patrons. Danny Knaub joins as Chief Engagement + Growth Officer, focusing on growing and strengthening patron connections to Starlight.
Rebecca (Becky) Martin
Rebecca (Becky) Martin is an accomplished executive leader with more than 20 years of experience leading teams, producing large-scale live events, and shaping strategy. A lifelong Kansas Citian, she is passionate about the city she calls home, and her work has always centered on creating meaningful connections between audiences, artists, organizations, and communities.
Stepping into the position as Chief Guest Experience Officer is especially meaningful for Becky, as an internship at Starlight early in her career sparked a lifelong passion for the arts that continues to guide her work today.
Previously, Rebecca spent 14 years with the Kansas City Symphony as Director of Artistic Operations, executive producing more than 250 live events annually and leading the team through the opening of the Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts. She also guided community engagement strategy and worked as a connector across Kansas City arts organizations.
“Becky brings vast experience in event production, organizational leadership, strategic planning, and building partnerships across sectors,” said Lindsey Rood-Clifford, President + C.E.O. of Starlight. “I’m grateful to have her leadership as we move into an exciting new chapter of growth and possibility.”
Get to Know Becky
What is your favorite show, musical, or concert?
A: This answer changes for me pretty regularly. Currently, my favorite musical is The Outsiders. I had the opportunity to see it on Broadway this fall and was completely blown away by the choreography, storytelling, and visual design. But if you ask me again in six months, my answer will probably be different.
What are you looking forward to at Starlight this season?
A: Honestly, everything. There is nothing quite like summer under the stars at Starlight. I am looking forward to welcoming our incredible community into this beautiful setting to experience amazing concerts and Broadway shows together.
Do you have any hobbies or interests?
A: I am an avid reader, and this is the first year I have set an official reading goal, so I am hoping to make my way through several books currently in queue. When I am not at Starlight, I am usually spending time with my two daughters, whom I absolutely love supporting and being with. And if we are all at home, you will likely find me snuggled on the couch with my husband and our dogs.
Danny Knaub
Danny Knaub comes to Starlight from Charlotte, NC, where he served as Chief Marketing Officer for Blumenthal Arts and led the brand, vision and marketing strategy. He helped make Charlotte a Top 10 market for touring Broadway, generating nearly $100M in annual economic impact.
Danny’s career highlights include overseeing full brand creation, visual identity, and messaging for the Charlotte International Arts Festival and Blume Studios. Danny was also nominated for an Emmy Award® for writing and producing Blumenthal Arts Presents: From Broadway to Charlotte.
Prior to his leadership role at the Blumenthal, Danny worked as the Senior Marketing & Press Manager for Broadway Booking Office, NYC, a theatrical tour booking, marketing, and press company.
Before moving to New York City, Danny worked as Director of Communications for BroadwaySF, where he developed and implemented publicity initiatives for productions that played the Curran, Golden Gate, and Orpheum Theatres.
“Danny is an innovative leader with a true passion for connecting people through the arts,” Rood-Clifford said. “His depth of experience in marketing, branding, and audience engagement—both with major performing arts organizations and Broadway productions—makes him an incredible addition to our team as we continue to expand Starlight’s reach in Kansas City and beyond.”
Get to Know Danny
What is your favorite show, musical, or concert?
A: This is always the hardest question for me to answer because it changes all the time, so I typically think about the show albums I listen to most. For that reason, I’m going to say RENT. I can listen to that music all day, everyday.
What are you looking forward to at Starlight this season?
A: I’m really excited to see our first audience in our beautiful venue. Being new to Kansas City, I’m looking forward to seeing if audiences here differ in any way. Show-wise, Hadestown is another favorite. I’ve seen it in NYC, on tour in Charlotte, so I’m super happy about seeing it under the stars.
Do you have any hobbies or interests?
A: I’m a big movie buff and I have a true love for scary movies. Awards season is big in our house. Other hobbies include trivia nights and brunch dates with friends.