Bonnie Schock

BizTUCSONJuly 7, 2026

2 minutes read

Executive Director
Fox Tucson Theatre

By Christy Krueger

One of Tucson’s greatest gems that has been the center of downtown for nearly 100 years is about to get an important $26 million expansion, thanks, in part, to the vision of Bonnie Schock.

Joining Fox Tucson Theatre in 2020 as executive director, Schock realized she had a role to play in the theatre’s ongoing existence. Her arts background in stage directing, producing plays and arts administration gave her the knowledge to make this a reality.

“Fox is a space that is irreplaceable and I wanted to apply my skills where they could make a difference. My goal was to ensure it has an ongoing positive impact in the community and what it means to future generations. We want to be vibrant for the next 100 years.”

In 2022, Rio Nuevo invested $2 million to get the project on the drawing board. “Our goal is to open in 2030 with our 100-year anniversary,” Schock said. “Fox purchased the properties to the east and north adjacent to the theatre up to the county building on Stone. We’re developing into a performing arts campus.”

The expansion will incorporate larger lobbies; ADA compliance, including an elevator; a second 350-seat theatre; and a rooftop deck and bar. “This will open the Fox to a much broader range including programs for kids, community groups and events to give us flexibility.”

Schock says a project of this magnitude is a worthwhile challenge. “Historic venues are very important to the community and so rare in the world. We need to preserve them.”

Nancy March, founder of the Arizona Nonprofit Counsel, which provides low-cost legal services to nonprofits, served on the Fox Theatre’s board of directors and the committee that hired Schock. March was highly impressed with Schock from their first meeting.

“Bonnie is very visionary,” March said. “When expansion came along, she recognized it’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. She could see how it would work and gathered important people to help move the project along while embracing all the special qualities of Tucson. Bonnie is always thinking of how to improve on everything. This is an example of good leadership. She’s the complete package and truly deserves this honor.”

Schock has served as a leadership fellow with the Association of Performing Arts Professionals, the Shannon Institute, and the Bush Foundation’s Creative Community Leadership Program.