J.D. is the President and Chief Executive Officer of Studio C, a family-owned company that exists to create space
where story happens, bringing people together with a world-class entertainment experience.
At the heart of the company is the Celebration Cinema brand of movie theatres, with 143 screens in 10 locations
in west and mid-Michigan. Celebration Cinema theatres have long been a leader in the industry. J.D. continues
the Loeks legacy of investment in the movie theatre business by converting the entire circuit to digital cinema;
adding recliner seating; launching expanded food & beverage offerings, and making space for unique
programming and events.
J.D. has worked at all levels of the business. While in high school, he worked as a Cast Member at the Cinema
Carousel in Norton Shores, tearing tickets and selling concessions. Later, after college, he managed the opening
and first year of operation of Celebration Cinema Mt. Pleasant. Returning to the company in 2004, he is now
ushering in the 3rd generation of family leadership.
J.D. spent years developing the Studio Park project in downtown Grand Rapids, which opened to the public in
the fall of 2019. Studio Park includes a movie theatre, music venue, restaurants & retail, as well as apartments,
condominiums, Class A office space, a hotel, parking ramp, and an outdoor piazza for community gathering &
events. Studio C launched several new businesses with the Studio Park development: One Twenty Three Tavern,
Midtown Live Music, Studio Park(ing) and Studio Park Lofts & Tower.
Studio C also encompasses ShowSpan, the premiere producer of consumer shows in the Midwest, including The
Wine, Beer & Food Festival launching in November and Michigan International Auto Show in January 2026, both
at DeVos Place, among other shows across Michigan, Wisconsin and Pennsylvania January – March.
J.D. graduated from East Grand Rapids High School and Calvin College. He holds an MBA and Masters in Finance
from the Daniel College of Business at the U