Meet the Director of Memphis’s Buckman Arts Center
From world-class performers to unforgettable community moments, Buckman Performing and Fine Arts Center has been bringing the arts to Memphis for nearly 30 years. Director Cindi Younker shares what inspires her — and what’s in store for Season 28. Image: Buckman Performing and Fine Arts Center
On the campus of St. Mary’s Episcopal School, the Buckman Performing and Fine Arts Center offers world-class performances in an intimate setting. At the helm is Director Cindi Younker, whose thoughtful curation and passion for the arts have shaped the center’s reputation as both a community treasure and a cultural gateway. As Buckman launches its 28th season, we talked with Cindi about her journey, her role, and what audiences can look forward to this year.
What first sparked your passion for the performing arts?
My love for the performing arts began with my mother. She made it a tradition for me and my siblings to attend every touring musical at the Orpheum — you name it, we were there. It wasn’t just about the show; it was the whole ritual. We would dress up, head out for a “ladies’ lunch,” and then step into the magic of the theater.
The moment the lights dimmed and the curtain rose, I was completely enchanted. The shimmer of the costumes, the sweep of the choreography, the drama of the lighting and sets … I was captivated by it all. At the time, it felt like a dream world far beyond my reach, and I never imagined that one day I would be part of the very industry that inspired me as a child.
How did your path lead you to your role at Buckman?
Years ago, my husband’s band was playing near the University of Memphis, opening for a singer-songwriter I’d never heard of. When Jill Sobule walked in with just an acoustic guitar, I didn’t know what to expect. From the moment she stepped on that tiny stage, everyone was spellbound. The normally loud, rowdy bar crowd fell silent, hanging on every word and note. She transformed the atmosphere, turning a noisy night out into a shared moment of wonder and imagination. I wanted to create that kind of connection and magic between artist and audience.
What do you love most about your role as director?
My life at Buckman is so much fun! A smaller venue and an open environment encourage creativity to flourish. For example, our Magic Carpet Ride Series first took flight about 15 years ago and has now provided thousands of children, ages two and up, with their first performance experience. The Memphis Made Center Stage series turns the spotlight on local artists who play all over the country, but may not have the opportunity to shine at home.
Our partnerships with the Memphis Shelby County schools have become so successful that we have a waiting list. Buckman has allowed me to explore and share transformative arts with the broader community in ways I never imagined.
What makes the Buckman Performing and Fine Arts Center unique among other performance venues in the city?
Buckman is by far the most charming venue in Memphis. With the furthest seat in the house only 40 feet from the stage, every experience is unique, intimate, and interactive with the artist. The capacity is actually very liberating. It allows us to take risks with new artists and balance them with familiar favorites.
We are large enough for national or international acts, yet small enough to retain intimacy between performers and the audience. It allows artists who might get lost in larger venues to shine, and for audiences to feel close and personally engaged.
What excites you most about Season 28?
We have some spectacular artists heading our way this year. Kicking off with Leo Kottke and Pure Prairie League gave us a super strong start with sellout audiences. Flamenco Viva Carlota Santana and Popovich Comedy Pet Theatre represent the return of beloved acts to the Memphis area. The Klezmatics, Scotland’s Cantrip, and Soweto Gospel Choir keep Buckman true to its world — music roots with global folk sounds.
What can audiences expect to see or experience this season that feels new or especially meaningful?
Omnium Circus, an inclusive performance company, will enable audiences and families to see representation on the stage for able-bodied artists. They offer sensory-friendly performance, signed interpretation, and astounding body-positive acrobats, jugglers, contortionists, and entertainers. I don’t think Memphis has ever welcomed a company quite like this before!
How do you choose which performers and productions to bring each year?
Buckman offers a balance of diverse artists each season, pulling from such eclectic genres as contemporary dance, world music, live podcasts, and family-friendly shows. We invite audiences to comfortable and familiar performances, just as we ask them to open their minds and let down their guard for new, intriguing experiences.
Many times, we present performers whose stars are rising, offering a unique opportunity to catch them before they are forever booked in larger venues. Here, the interactions are up close and PERSONAL! Our vibe, mission, design, programming, and community impact set us apart and offer something fresh every time.
Looking ahead, how do you envision Buckman continuing to evolve as a hub for the arts in Memphis?
As we head toward our 30th season, Buckman looks to maintain its artistic offerings while deepening community engagement and expanding partnerships with local schools and community groups. Adding hands-on workshops, artistic residencies, and intergenerational programming will build on the roots of our educational programming.
We stand by our unwavering commitment to keep ticket prices reasonable so that audiences from all socioeconomic backgrounds can attend. We never want finances to be the reason someone misses a transformative opportunity.
On a personal note, what keeps you inspired in this work, season after season?
Definitely the people. There’s a special kind of energy when an audience gathers. Even in the lobby, you can sense where they’ve come from — their excitement, the conversations, even the lingering aromas of a charming dinner out. When it all comes together, it feels like anticipation in the air. It means something good is about to happen, and everyone is here for a shared experience.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever gotten?
“You cannot talk yourself out of what you behave yourself into!” Covers all manners of things and people.
Aside from faith, family, and friends, what are three things you can’t live without?
Morning jogs, my cats Minka and Otis, and a good box of Junior Mints.
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Gaye Swan
As a professional writer of over 20 years, Gaye is an avid traveler and enjoys highlighting food, culture, and attractions around the South. While Gaye is passionate about life in Memphis, she grew up in Meridian and is still a Mississippi girl at heart.