J.L. 'Lynn' Singleton has led the Providence Performing Arts Center (PPAC) since 1983, transforming it from near bankruptcy into a renowned not-for-profit theatre that has earned five Tony Awards and an Olivier Award, significantly boosting local tourism and the economy.

On October 16, 2025, Singleton was honored with the Civic Impact Award at WaterFire Providence's FireBall Gala in Rhode Island, recognizing his substantial contributions to the community.

Throughout his leadership, Singleton aimed to restore the historic 1928 theatre to its original grandeur while modernizing its infrastructure to ensure its continued success.

In addition to his theatre achievements, Singleton received an Emmy Award for Best Art Direction for A&E's 'Peter Pan' and has been a prominent figure in the arts community for decades.

He founded Professional Facilities Management, Inc., a subsidiary of PPAC that serves ten theatrical clients across six states, and is also a voting member of the Tony Awards.

Singleton's leadership has been recognized with numerous awards, including Providence Business News' 'Driving Force,' the Pell Award for Outstanding Leadership in the Arts, and his induction into the Rhode Island Heritage Hall of Fame in 2023.