Minutes 1-6-94 - Laserfiche WebLink

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M/S Piulle/Ball: To conceptually approve the Middlefield-Main project because the concept is invaluable to the City but emphasize that it should have a gallery of large enough size to house special visual and performing cultural events. Motion passed. The Commissioners suggested that the Head Start area also consider making space available for rent on weekends for events. Commissioner Piulle stated the Cultural Commission would like to be involved in this project. ITEM 3-EVALUATION OF REDWOOD SYMPHONY CONCERT AT FOX THEATER-DR. ERIC KUJAWSKY Dr. Eric Kujawsky thanked the Commission for granting the Redwood City Symphony funds to put on their performance at the Fox Theater last August. He said the positives of performing at the Fox Theater were: performing a free concert at a new location; the group picked up new audience members (about 50% of the attendees were new to the Redwood City Symphony); and the acoustics were wonderful. The negatives were: the stage is not large enough for a full orchestra; it was very difficult putting an 80 piece orchestra on a stage which could accommodate only a 50 piece orchestra; the loading dock was almost inaccessible; the group had to bring their own cha.irs, stands and shell through a very narrow area; it was a very difficult move and he would not want to repeat it again. He also felt that the staff at the Fox Theater could have been more helpful. Dr. Kujawsky said he would like to see the City build a facility like the San Mateo Performing Arts Center. He estimated there were approximately 400 people attending the free concert. Dr. Kujawsky said the Fox Theater needs a permanent shell covering in order to accommodate orchestra performances. He also suggested the need to upgrade the back entrance to make the loading process easier. He noted that the timing of the Fox Theater grant process did not coincide with the group's performance season. He said he began planning the 94-95 season in December 1993 and receiving the application in the summer for that year is not feasible. He felt the applicants need to get the grant applications earlier to plan for the following year. In addition, the availability of the theater is limited which makes it difficult to schedule. The Commissioners said they enjoyed the Redwood Symphony's concert very much. Dr. Kujawsky announced the Redwood City Symphony will be making a CD with Jerry Garcia of the Grateful Dead next year and the group will also be moving from Canada College to the San Mateo Performing Arts Center next season.