Former Hollywood Wax GM promoted to oversee Grand Palace project

Photo provided by Kuvera Partners

Chuck O’Day is promoted to oversee Kuvera Partners’ new developments, including the Branson aquarium.

Los Angeles-based Kuvera Partners promoted the former general manager of its Hollywood Wax Museum Entertainment Center in Branson to oversee projects that include a proposed redevelopment of the Grand Palace property.

Chuck O’Day, a Branson resident, was promoted to the newly created role of director of new development and openings, which includes oversight of the planned attraction dubbed Aquarium at the Boardwalk at the Grand Palace, 2700 W. 76 Country Blvd. A 23-year employee of Kuvera Partners, O’Day previously served as general manager of the Hollywood Wax Museum in Branson before working most recently as director of operations, according to a news release.

Kuvera Partners also promoted Richard O’Donnell, an attractions general manager with the company for 11 years, to O’Day’s former role of operations director. In the position, O’Donnell oversees quality and guest experience at multiple entertainment centers, including those in Branson.

Additionally, Kuvera Partners appointed Taylor Chamberlain as general manager of the company’s attractions in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. He had been general manager of the Branson Hollywood Wax Museum, and the company is now seeking a new leader for that property, according to the release.

“These staff changes will continue to make our organization stronger as we prepare for exciting projects ahead,” said Tej Sundher, a partner with Kuvera Partners, in the release. “We are proud that everyone in our leadership group is deeply committed to our guests and to the overall success of the company.”

Kuvera Partners recently announced plans to turn the vacant Grand Palace — which it bought for $2.7 million in 2017 — into a 46,000-square-foot aquarium attraction. The developer is seeking tax-increment financing from the city of Branson. Kuvera Partners spokeswoman Aileen Stein has said the company is hopeful the city will approve the request next year to enable the project to be completed by March 2020, according to past Springfield Business Journal reporting.