By Alan Hill, President, Performing Arts Council Board of Directors
After a whirlwind 10th anniversary performing arts series, the BPAC board is on the proverbial tee box of the 18th hole staring into a 40-mile-an-hour headwind.
For five years the Performing Arts Council has operated under a 501 (c) 3 status with guidance from a board of directors from all walks of life. We are unified in the belief that the performing arts boost the quality of life in our valley. While Hamilton is almost never on the radar of high-caliber artists when planning a tour, successful negotiations have provided exceptional experiences for our audience members at reduced-priced tickets.
The Drive: it’s short and in the rough! This year’s budget for the Performing Arts Council is nearly identical to last year’s. However, for a multitude of reasons, our income has not lived up to previous seasons.
The second shot: A solid chip into the middle of the fairway! For the past few months, board members have juggled on stage, raffled guitars, sold lapel stickers galore, and made constant requests for financial support during stage announcements.
The third shot: On the green but a 50-foot putt! Ominous to the board is the reality that although we are focused on finishing the season in the black, it’s time to secure artists for our 11th season but our future status is uncertain.
Our final show of the season on May 1 is Hilary Hahn – a master violinist who plays the world’s largest concert halls. This is may be a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for many. If you have given to our organization in the past, thank you. However, we still need to raise an additional $17,000 in the next 30 days for any chance of planning our next season. Please join me in the BPAC’s vision of “Educating, Enlightening, Entertaining and Inspiring” those who live in our gracious valley.
It’s the Putt: it’s on the way and I for one am not ready to go home!
Please stop by the BPAC’s box office in Hamilton during April to buy tickets or learn about giving opportunities. A board member can meet with any group, business or individual interested in learning more. Just call 363-7946. Thank you!