Dear Patrons of the Arts,
Thank you for your astounding dedication to the arts. During this unprecedented year, YOU have made it possible for artists to display works in the gallery and perform music on the stage. You came together as a community and donated nearly $120,000 to The Center in December alone. This funding allows us to continue creating opportunities for artists while providing much-needed art, beauty, performance, and music for our community.
The Board of Directors and I are thoroughly and carefully planning for a multitude of different scenarios that may occur during 2021. We are faced with so many unknowns; When will The Center be able to open for live audiences? We are hopeful we will be allowed to have a modified California WorldFest this summer, but what are the ramifications to The Center if WorldFest is postponed for a second year? As California reopens, I feel cautiously optimistic that we will be allowed to have some form of outdoor shows this summer, but we are unable to fully plan for that. It is likely that we won’t know what outdoor events will look like for several more months, and we can’t have a show without performers who are also struggling to determine when they can start touring again.
Although there is still so much uncertainty in 2021, one thing is for sure, our members are more important to us than ever. Throughout 2020 we have grown our skillset at the Center and are working tirelessly to provide you with quality online programming. We have launched the In Conversation With series which highlights local celebrities through zoom conversations, we present From the Center performances showcasing local musicians on our stage, and most recently we introduced virtual tours of art gallery exhibitions.
For many months we provided these new programs at no cost, but beginning in 2021 we needed to reevaluate how we do things. While the majority of events are free to members, they do require a ticket which must be procured before the start of each event. We are excited to share that this Friday Rita Hosking and Sean Feder will be performing on the stage and we hope you join us from your living room!
What’s different in 2021 about the “From the Center” Broadcasts?
- • Our performances will no longer play on Facebook or our From The Center page. When you purchase a ticket you will get a confirmation email with your UNIQUE link and passcode to watch the show.
- • Tickets are required for all performances. Prices vary for the public, but members access these events for free! Login to your member account on our ticketing page, and discounts will automatically be applied at checkout.
- • During the stream, you will not be able to pause or rewind during the live broadcast. When the live broadcast ends non-members can watch the recording for 48 hours. Members have unlimited access to replay all performances in our ALL NEW Member Library.
- • MOST IMPORTANT – purchase your ticket early! Don’t wait until the last minute to enjoy the best virtual experience during the live event. Late entry ticket prices go up to $15 and ticket sales end at midnight.
With the grants and community support we have been so fortunate to receive, we are able to continue to move forward during these uncertain times to bring art and entertainment into your home. We still have many unknowns about what will be possible in 2021 but with your support, we will get through this together. 2020 has shown us that necessity is truly the mother of invention and I never would have imagined The Center would grow and learn so much about putting art online to create such unique and inspiring virtual experiences for our audiences. Every day I am so very grateful for The Center staff that has thoughtfully created new and innovative ways to present art.
Thank you for your support and for loving the arts! The arts will be our recovery.
Sincerely,
Amber Jo Manuel, Executive Director
Upcoming Broadcasts
[ecs-list-events cat=’from-the-center’]
