Reflections on the arts in 2011, Pikes Peak region
We never cease to be amazed by how our art community continues to reinvent itself, preserving the best of its history and traditions while continuing to pivot, revitalize and explore new ways of serving the community. The specific performances and exhibits that moved me this past year are far too numerous to mention. Among the extraordinary and noteworthy achievements:
The Colorado Springs Philharmonic had a banner year, highlighted by the brilliant debut of new conductor and music director Josep Caballe-Domenech. After a rigorous season-long search, Josep was the overwhelming top choice by musicians and the search committee as the ideal musical leader for this pivotal time in the orchestra’s life. The Philharmonic’s continued revitalization was noted by the Colorado Springs Economic Development Corporation, which presented it with the Chairperson’s Award for “unique and exceptional community contributions.”
The Colorado Springs Fine Arts Center marked its 75-year anniversary with a range of provocative programming. A highlight of the year was the riveting Martha Graham Dance Company performance, which was all at once historic and modern. The Birger Sandzen exhibit is an absolute stunner (it closes January 8), and new Performing Arts Director Scott RC Levy programmed an eclectic season that kicked off with one of the best productions I’ve seen on the FAC stage, “Assassins.”
The Colorado Springs Conservatory found a new downtown home ideally suited for providing high-caliber performing arts education to the more than 400 young people it serves through its core program and partner programs. This spectacular space was made possible through the Conservatory’s partnership with businessman Kevin O’Neil.
The Conservatory wasn’t the only arts organization with a new home. Ormao dance company secured a beautiful new home with two ample studio spaces, which has allowed for new multidisciplinary projects and even more community outreach. Ormao’s space was made possible with generous assistance from longtime arts patron Chuck Murphy.
In New Homes, Part 3, two smaller theater companies also found suitable new spaces. Springs Ensemble Theatre is ideally suited for its 45-seat new home near the intersection of Union Avenue and Cache La Poudre Street, and Theatre ‘d Art moved to the heart of downtown, sharing its new space with Star Bar Players.
The MAT is no longer Manitou Art Theatre: Now it is Millibo Art Theatre, a fitting change honoring two extraordinary people who had a passion for the magic of live theater, Millie Harrison and Bo Freese. MAT continued its dedication to the production of original work this year with productions such as Bill Bowers’ “The Heyokah Project” and perhaps my personal favorite, “Chewed Bread” by Nisa Ari and Paz Pardo.
The Free for All Summer Symphony: A Celebration of Charles Ansbacher and Bee Vradenburg honored the legacy of two dear friends who shared a love for Colorado Springs and the desire to make orchestral music accessible to all. The first of this three-year special program was made possible by a gift from the Charles Ansbacher Foundation to the Bee Vradenburg Foundation, which in turn is supporting a free orchestral concert each year for the community. The project kicked off with a September concert on the lawn west of the Fine Arts Center. The Chamber Orchestra of the Springs joined with the Gospel Music Workshop of America for a magical evening of music from the heart. Charles’ widow, Swanee Hunt, and much of his family traveled from throughout the country for this special evening, and Colorado Gov. John Hickenlooper sent a special greeting. (This program returns in 2012 with a free outdoor concert by the Colorado Springs Philharmonic.)
Hundreds of chairs snaked down the center of Manitou Avenue in Manitou Springs on a chilly autumn morning as artist Sean O’Meallie’s Chair Project public art installation came to fruition. The result was beautiful and buoyant, augmented by musicians, a dance flash mob, yoga, puppets and much more. The project reminded us of the ability of art to bring community together and help us experience wonder and possibility in wholly fresh ways.
It is hard to believe that two years ago at this time, city financial woes threatened the future of the Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum. But through the incredible dedication of director Matt Mayberry, his staff, numerous community volunteers and donors, and vital support from the city, the museum is thriving. This year saw an increase in attendance, a successful first-ever fundraising breakfast, and refreshing and provocative exhibits. A special highlight for me was the “Framing Community, Exposing Identity” exhibit, which continues in 2012 and is an absolute must-see for every one of us who calls the Pikes Peak region our home.
The list of newsworthy and unique highlights could go on and on. KRCC brought a live taping of “Prairie Home Companion” to the World Arena, enabling 4 million people across the country to hear Garrison Keillor sing about the beautiful charms of our city. MeadowGrass Music Festival marked its third year with the best of local and national acts under Colorado sunshine in the spectacular setting of La Foret. Smokebrush at Marmalade hosted the new monthly Story Project, produced by Sharon Friedman and featuring everyday people sharing true-life stories that are sometimes humorous, sometimes harrowing, always heart-felt. "Bending Towards the Light" put a jazzy spin on the Nativity story and spotlighted some of our community's finest musicians and singers.
From all of us at Bee Vradenburg Foundation, we thank the artists, art teachers, arts administrators and arts supporters who enrich all our lives in the Pikes Peak region.
