The Roanoke Island Historical Association, producers of The Lost Colony outdoor drama, has announced John Ancona will become its new general manager effective December 1.
Ancona comes from Herschend Family Entertainment (HFE) which is the nation’s largest family-owned themed attractions corporation, operating entertainment, tourism and hospitality properties in 23 locations in six states.
In his most recent position with HFE, Ancona served as the Director of Entertainment and Events. Ancona produced, operated and managed festival and live entertainment product and personnel for Silver Dollar City in Branson, Missouri.
“John Ancona is a game changer for RIHA and The Lost Colony,” said chairman Kevin Bradley. “His skillsets are a perfect fit for the organization as we look towards our future.”
“We believe John has the practical experience and extraordinary vision that is necessary to take RIHA to new levels of excellence. We are extremely pleased to add John to our leadership team,” Bradley said.
Prior to his 13 year run at HFE, Ancona worked for Norwegian Cruise Lines where he managed the daily operations of 12 ships worldwide which included 250-plus shipside personnel, a direct-reporting shore-side team of managers and supervisors as well as multiple production companies, entertainment agencies, free-lance directors, designers, contractors and entertainment technical vendors.
Ancona also produced and operated all new and existing entertainment programs and special events. He created and managed the schedule for the creative, production, rehearsal and installation process of all new entertainment product from conception to completion.
Ancona recently shared a few thoughts about coming to The Lost Colony:
“It is with both pride and humility that I have the great privilege of being a part of our country’s longest-running outdoor theatrical production The Lost Colony I am very much looking forward to working alongside such an extraordinarily talented cast, crew and creative team, in preserving its legacy for future generations and becoming immersed in the beautiful culture of the Roanoke Island and Outer Banks communities”.