In support of our mission to aid in the revitalization of downtown
areas through the use of the Arts we offer a number of programs
which provide advice, equipment and short term funding assistance.
Project
Planning -
Many of our supporters have extensive
experience in the Arts and in the restoration of buildings.
Drawing upon this experience we are able to provide a wide range of
services which include the evaluation of potential buildings,
assistance in planning the conversion or restoration of a building and the
preparation of blueprints for a local architect's review and
certification. On some projects we have also provided on-site
technical advisors, caretakers, project managers and similar
personnel to help guide the project.
Past projects have included upgrades to operating theaters,
the renovation of dormant theaters, the conversion of vacant "big
box" stores for use as performance spaces and the conversion of
large restaurants or banquet halls into performance spaces.
Technical Support -
During the design phase of a project we are able to provide
guidance in selecting and specifying the technical equipment for a
facility. Over the years we have learned that sometimes
architects and engineers who work on conventional buildings don't
always know what the best choices for a performance space are
and that they can make some bad decisions. Drawing upon the
combined experiences of our technical experts we can help spot and
correct problems while they're still on paper.
We also provide support in the form of hands on training and
seminars to teach the staff at both new and existing venues how to
best use the equipment that they have. Often we will provide
Technical Directors, Scenery Designers, Lighting Designers, stage
carpenters and stage electricians to help organizations create
better productions.
Contractor Referrals/Discounts -
Some of our supporters work for or own companies which
specialize in designing, building, equipping and maintaining
theaters. As supporters of our downtown revitalization efforts
they often will offer their services at reduced rates. When
business has been slow or there are gaps between jobs some of these
companies have worked at cost.
Equipment Loans -
Often organizations do not have all of the equipment that may
be needed to create a successful production. By working with
theatrical equipment rental companies we are often able to provide
necessary equipment at reduced or no charge for qualifying
organizations. In the past we have provided anything from a
few pieces of scenery to entire lighting and sound systems.
Temporary Financing -
Finances are always a challenge in the Arts. We are
very fortunate to have several "Angels" amongst our supporters who
are willing to provide short term loans for items such as emergency
repairs, acquiring threatened buildings, and "bridge financing" to
keep an organization operating while they wait for funding to come
through.
Revitalization Guidance -
Having been involved with creating venues which are part of
revitalization projects we have become familiar with the
revitalization process, from the initial studies and surveys though the planning
process to the implementation of a revitalization plan. This
experience allows us to help guide organizations through the process
and provide assistance in evaluating a downtown's strengths and
weaknesses, conducting resident surveys, creating a vision for "the
new downtown" and formulating goals for a revitalization plan. While we
are not a substitute for a professional revitalization consultant,
we can assist local groups in performing many of steps in
revitalization planning on their own.
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