The Granada Theatre performing arts venue in Santa Barbara has added Anne Towbes and Nicole Wester to its Board of Directors.

Towbes, a longtime community philanthropist with deep ties to the theater’s restoration, and Wester, a finance and nonprofit leader, bring a blend of legacy stewardship and fresh perspective to the organization, theater officials said.

“We are so excited to welcome Anne Towbes and Nicole Wester to our Board,” said Palmer Jackson Jr., board chairman/CEO of The Granada Theatre.

“Anne’s deep roots with The Granada and her commitment to continuing the legacy of her late husband Michael Towbes, who played a pivotal role in the theater’s history, make her an invaluable addition.

“Nicole’s fresh perspective and financial expertise will be instrumental in shaping the organization’s future,” he said.

A lifelong supporter of the arts, Towbes played an integral role in the restoration of The Granada Theatre, alongside Michael Towbes, whose leadership was instrumental in bringing the historic venue back to life in 2008.

A former theater arts, speech and English teacher, Towbes has maintained a deep personal and professional connection to the performing arts throughout her life, according to the Granada.

“This was Michael’s most beloved project,” Towbes said. “His role in the restoration of the theater was beyond encompassing. “He always said, ‘We have one chance to do this right. Let’s build the theater to last for over 100 more years.’

“I’m honored to be asked to be more involved with The Granada as a new board member.”

Wester brings organizational, financial and governance experience to the board. Raised in New Orleans, Louisiana, and Birmingham, Alabama, she holds a degree in healthcare management from the University of Alabama and an MBA in finance from Louisiana State University.

Her career spans healthcare administration and commercial real estate, complemented by leadership roles with organizations including the Baton Rouge Symphony League, and the Children’s Coalition of Northeast Louisiana.

“I have loved the performing arts since I was a child. We would attend performances at the Saenger Theatre in New Orleans,” said Wester. “When we toured Santa Barbara, one of the first things we saw was The Granada, and its history reminded me of the Saenger.

“Once we moved here, I learned more about The Granada and saw what a great facility it is and how it is the center of State Street and the arts community.”

For more on the theater and upcoming shows, visit www.granadasb.org.