When I was a little girl, I frequently rounded up all the neighborhood kids to do little performances of Annie (of course I always HAD to be Annie). I even made sets out of cardboard boxes. I was in my first real production on a stage in 5th grade as a cookie child in Hansel and Gretel. I saw my first Broadway show when I was 10. From the first note of the overture, it was like nothing I’d ever felt before. It took my breath away. Seeing live theatre still to this day takes my breath away. I’ve heard symphonies and seen dances that gave me all the feels. The arts became a driving force in my life. I got a degree in music and eventually became a Music Therapist where I daily use the power of music to help people.
When I moved to Hood River 11 years ago, I was thrilled to learn that the Gorge had such a vibrant arts community. I immediately jumped in and was cast in my first Gorge production, Jesus Christ Superstar. I became part of a community. I joined the Voci choir for a few years. I joined the Board of CGOA. I felt so much a part of something bigger than myself. That is what the arts does for a community.
As many of you know I have been working with an amazing group with a vision to bring a state-of-the-art performing arts center to the Columbia River Gorge. I have been a part of the Performing Arts Initiative from the beginning 5 years ago and am now the President of the Board. I am inspired everyday by the passion and support that has been building over this time.
Imagine the possibilities:
- A local music festival
- A state-of-the-art performance space for local and national artists
- An educational space
- A cultural hub for activities of all kinds
- A space that can be used for lectures, workshops, business retreats, and other special events.
- How about CGOA’s Sinfonietta and Voci choir performing “Carmina Burana”?
Over the last five years, the PAI Board has been completing the research and due diligence necessary to make this dream a reality. Now it is time to take the big leap into realizing this dream. We will be finalizing the venue location, preparing for a capital campaign, and hiring an architecture team to start designing the performing arts venue. Your support will help make this dream happen.
If there is one thing that I’ve learned in the last five years it is that it really does take a village. We need your support. This really is a BIG DREAM. We can’t do it without you. Please consider contributing to this exciting project that will bring so much to the Gorge community. No amount is too small. Help us make this big dream a reality!
