Hartt Stearns - President & CEO

One World began in 1993 as an education outreach program for which co-founders Hartt Stearns and lIuminada created performances and programs designed to enrich students' experiences of the arts and expand their knowledge of various world cultures. That part of our organization, Touring One World, has grown to over 300 performances and workshops each school year, reaching over 50,000 students in grades K - 12. By introducing our youngest community members to the world's various art forms and traditions, One World hopes to foster an understanding of people and cultures different from our own.

From that base, the most evident aspect of One World came into being in the summer of 1999 - One World Theatre (OWT). Technologically advanced and "green-built," the theatre is softly nestled in the hills of West Austin. Resembling a Tuscan villa and described "as unique as the artist...presented," OWT has become known as a premiere forum showcasing an eclectic mix of world-renowned performers...and a place where magic happens. The very intimate setting elegantly accommodates the performer's artistry and a rapt audience of only 300, and fosters the creation of a most unique experience for all. Following a performance by Mr. Herbie Hancock one reporter wrote "(the experience gave) the surreal sense that one of the all-time jazz greats was playing in your living room."

One World has received high praise from local and regional media as well as nationally known publications. Such acclaim has facilitated the expansion of our seasonal offerings and allowed One World to bring terrific diversity to its stage. Virtuosos such as the aforementioned Herbie Hancock, Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, McCoy Tyner, George Benson, Sergio Mendes, Stars of American Ballet Theater, Branford Marsalis, Cowboy Junkies, Moscow Chamber Orchestra, Pat Metheny, Little Feat, Mercedes Sosa, America, Orpheus Chamber Orchestra and many others. But more importantly, the acclamation and success have brought much needed support to One World, enabling us to continue with our mission of educating and enriching audiences of all ages, nurturing the cultural awareness and artistic potential of our children and building community through diversity.

Albert Magara - CFO & COO

Hartt & Soul Productions, One World Theatre appointed Albert Magara as its new Chief Financial Officer on Feb 1^st, 2008.  With over 17 years of experience in accounting, information systems, finance and project management, Albert brings an added dimension to the organization’s senior management team.

“We are so pleased to welcome Albert to our team,” says Hartt Stearns, President and CEO of Hartt & Soul Productions.  "He possesses tremendous knowledge, as well as hands-on business expertise.  This strong combination of skills and experience is an important addition to Hartt & Soul’s executive management as we pursue our growth initiatives and promote our future vision."

After graduating from Kent College in Canterbury, England, Albert went on to pursue his Masters in Professional Accounting (MPA) with an emphasis on Information Technology from the University of Texas at Austin, Red McCombs School of Business.  Albert is a licensed Certified Public Accountant (CPA) in the State of Texas.  Prior to joining Hartt & Soul Productions, Albert spent 11 years at Dell, Inc. in various roles ranging from Senior Financial Analyst to Finance Manager.

“Music has always been one of my strongest passions.  Being a patron of the One World Theatre since 2001, I am excited to now be a part of this dynamic team.   My goal is to assist with the future development plans and ensure that we continue to bring the many talented artists of the world to this very unique venue."
 
 
 
 
 

Ellen Cañas - Director of Marketing

With almost 10 years of Marketing and Public Relations experience, Ellen brings demonstrated leadership skills to One World Theatre, including a thorough knowledge of marketing and promotional campaigns, strategic planning, industry and media relations. Ellen was Director of Projects for Gibson Musical Instruments where she served as point person during the Austin City Limits Music Festival, SXSW and Austin GuitarTown.  Prior to moving to Austin, Ellen served as Project Manager for MusiCares and The GRAMMY Foundation, raising funds and awareness for both of The National Academy of Recording Arts & Sciences non-profits.

Marcus Hutsell – Production Manager

For the past 10 years, Marcus Hutsell has honed his technical skill set on professional audio, video and lighting related technology in addition to earning his Bachelor’s Degree in Management Information Systems.  In addition to providing full technological support for the business operations of One World Theatre, Marcus is responsible for overseeing the production needs of every event, from public  concerts to private events.  Prior to joining One World Theatre, Marcus worked at The Sound Lab in Austin, TX and at the Kerr-McGee Corporation on Oklahoma City.