A Letter from the President

I have always felt that anything could be achieved given a well thought-out vision and a strong focus to make it happen. Staunton has the clear vision and existing environment to become the cultural center of the Shenandoah Valley. The area rallied to the dream of Shenandoah Shakespeare, and enabled the Blackfriars Playhouse to be built in a very short period of time. The community also got behind the R.R. Smith Art and History Center project, which is well on its way. There is another critical element in this vision. That is the restoration and conversion of the Dixie Theatre into the Staunton Performing Arts Center. Now is the time that we need you to join with us in focusing on this challenging but achievable project.

To truly be a cultural center, Staunton must have multiple alternatives for downtown nightly entertainment. This combines well with the educational attractions at the Woodrow Wilson Birthplace and the Museum of American Frontier Culture. All of these together will create a vibrant and exciting set of venues for people of all ages to experience. Each enhances the value of the others. The Staunton Performing Arts Center will be a regional center for a great variety of events, including plays, dance, and music. Touring companies as well as local artists will present these performances. In addition, the Center will provide cinema on a big screen.

I especially also dream of the day when the Staunton Performing Arts Center can be the place where children of all ages experience quality live performance in a true theatre environment, rather than in the multi-purpose gyms of our schools. The arts have been cut back in our schools, and it is crucial that children have the opportunity to gain artistic skills that enhance their own feeling of self worth.

I invite you to study the extensive materials enclosed to get a clearer idea of our vision, and then assist this organization of many dedicated volunteers in making this community dream come true. Thanks in advance for your help.

 Sincerely,

Brandon Collins
President