VenuesNow 2026 All-Star Honoree: Allen Johnson

Allen Johnson
Chief Venues Officer
Orlando Venues

FAVORITE VENUE TO SEE A SHOW THAT’S NOT YOURS?
“The St. Augustine Amphitheater and Judson’s Live at the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts.”

A $400M REIMAGINING

“Securing funding for Camping World Stadium’s current $400 million reimagination project that will thoroughly upgrade the iconic venue, increase seating capacity to 65,000 and effectively provide a completely brand-new stadium since 2014 has been huge for us. Key features include a new north end zone tower, retractable seating in the south end zone to create a stage pocket, a 360-degree concourse connecting premium suites and clubs, and a sweeping facade of metal panels illuminated by LED ribbons. This massive modernization is entirely funded by our Tourist Development Tax.”

OVERCOMING CHALLENGES

“Running multiple venues while overseeing a major construction project is an ongoing challenge, but I’m fortunate to be surrounded by a seasoned team of staff and partners that keep everything moving forward.”

K-POP, BACHATA & BEYOND

“We’re doing a lot of K-pop shows recently, and younger audiences reliably turn out in droves, singing along to every word. It’s a thrill to witness the popularity of this genre. Hosting numerous different Latin music genres is routine for us too — everything from reggaeton to bachata to Latin pop to salsa. Emerging artists have become hot for us as well.”

PHILANTHROPY-MINDED

“Two philanthropies that are particularly meaningful to me are the Orlando Magic Youth Foundation, which helps at-risk youth in Central Florida, and the Victim Service Center of Central Florida, which serves victims of sexual assault and violent crime with intervention, therapy, advocacy and outreach.”

WHAT’S NEXT?

“Hosting the Jacksonville Jaguars at Camping World Stadium for the 2027 season is a huge opportunity for us to showcase our reimagined stadium and welcome NFL fans from well beyond Central Florida to Orlando. The excitement is already palpable, and we’re still a year away!”