Women Who Inspire Wednesday: Adrienne Wilson
Written by Program Coordinator, Chris Schnell
Adrienne Wilson is the Events Coordinator for all the Tooth companies — Moose’s Tooth, Bear Tooth, Broken Tooth, and the newly opened Eye Tooth. Her story is rooted in passion, perseverance, and a profound love for community. Born in Anchorage and raised in Valdez, Adrienne describes her upbringing in a small town as foundational to her understanding of community engagement. “All the fun things that happened were because our moms were active,” she says, recalling the local programs that shaped her youth.
A graduate of Marquette University with a degree in History and English, Adrienne returned to Alaska in 2009 and found herself drawn to the vibrant local music and arts scene. In 2011, she joined Moose’s Tooth as a server — a role that eventually led her to the world of live events. What started with waiting tables quickly evolved into producing concerts and experiences that bring joy and belonging to Anchorage residents. “I love providing people with a good time,” Adrienne says. “I think life is hard, and I want to be an outlet for people to relax, laugh, and dance.”
Throughout her journey, Adrienne credits her mother, a journalist and educator, as one of her greatest inspirations. She also highlights the fierce and independent women of Alaska — “whether they moved here or were born here” — as a continuous source of strength and motivation.
Her advice to young women is powerful: “Be bold. Be loud. Keep pushing… and say yes. Say yes to everything, and then you will know what’s right for you.” Adrienne encourages women to try things out, explore opportunities, and then define what works for them — both personally and professionally. “You can figure out what your boundaries are as you go,” she says, reminding us that learning and growth come from experience.
What sets Adrienne apart as a leader is her unique blend of qualities that make people feel seen, heard, and energized. She is assertive without being intimidating, excitable yet thoughtful, and thrives in high-pressure environments with clarity and calm. Her charisma is magnetic — the kind that makes complete strangers open up to her within minutes. Adrienne’s ability to balance warmth with confidence, and vision with execution, makes her not just a leader, but a force in every space she enters.
Adrienne has a stacked calendar of events she is excited to bring to the community. One highlight is “Drag Me to the Movies” on May 31 — an inclusive event blending a drag show with a screening of Hairspray. “It’s not just a movie, it’s an experience,” she says of the interactive energy and incredible performances that fill the theater. She is also thrilled to welcome The California Honeydrops, Phantogram, and comedian Brooks Wheelan back to the Bear Tooth stage this fall. Her goal is to return to a full schedule with a major show every month, offering Anchorage residents vibrant, fresh entertainment year-round.
Adrienne’s vision for the future is as bold as her presence — she hopes to grow Anchorage’s arts and entertainment offerings, expand access to inclusive events, and make Alaska feel a little less far away for everyone.