Staff Spotlight: Lisa Hillard, Beverage & Concessions Manager
5/1/2019 12AM
She's been serving thirsty patrons since the first curtain
Lisa Hillard joined the Center as a bartender in November 2010, before the Palladium even opened. Ever since, she’s been taking care of our patrons in one way or another, usually in the thirsty-hungry department – and they do get thirsty. She currently manages the Palladium’s Basile Café; the bars that serve the Palladium, the Tarkington and the Studio Theater; and the 12 bartenders who staff them.
A graduate of Ben Davis High School and the Speedway Academy, she brings experience to the post. In decades past, she and her husband owned a couple restaurants. Now married 32 years, they have two grown children and live in Carmel.
Lisa was kind enough to share a bit about herself:
What is your favorite part of the job?
Getting to experience and see so many amazingly talented artists. Also, my job is never boring. There is always a new challenge with every show or event. And let’s not forget the amazing staff I have the privilege of working with every day.
What is the coolest thing that ever happened to you on the job?
I’d have to say meeting Chris Isaak. I am a longtime fan, and he was so sweet and gracious.
Who has been your favorite performer at the Center?
Too many to mention, but the ones who come to mind first are Pat Benatar and her husband, Neil Giraldo. They are great storytellers, and they rocked the roof off the Palladium. It was so much fun to see the audience on their feet and thoroughly enjoying the show. K.D. Lang was another one. She has the voice of an angel, and I get chills, goosebumps and tears every time I hear her perform “Hallelujah.”
When you’re chilling on your own time, what musical artist(s) do you listen to?
Joss Stone, Amy Winehouse, Marvin Gaye, Steely Dan, K.D. Lang, Frank Sinatra, Prince and Chris Isaak.
What surprised you most when you first started working at the Center?
That I got the job! I live across the street and watched the Palladium being built, all the while saying to myself “I will work there.” I started out as a bartender, went through a few changes and landed my position of managing the café and bars in all three of our outstanding venues. Dreams really do come true!
