Thursday, April 25, 2013

Alcott Arts Center Opens for Another Season

Today's post comes a little late, but it celebrates two themes that come up frequently in the eastern part of Wyandotte County: "hidden gems" and "good people doing great things".

I had the distinct pleasure of visiting the Alcott Arts Center (Facebook) on Friday, April 12th as they kicked off their 2013 season with beautiful art exhibits and a wonderful production of the musical "Rent".

The former Louisa May Alcott grade school
at 180 South 18th Street has been home to the
Alcott Arts Center since 2002.
The former Louisa May Alcott elementary school has been home to the Alcott Arts Center since October 2002. A not-for-profit corporation (L.M. Alcott Art Center Foundation) was formed in March 2002 to insure the continued operation of the center.

Who knew that an unassuming brick building at 180 South 18th (across the street from Sunfresh and Prescott Plaza) could be home to such a diverse and talented group of people?

Hats off to Executive Director Chris Green for her tireless work to keep the center vibrant and connected with the community. She is yet another in a long line of amazing folks that I have had the pleasure of meeting during the last two years in my role as Commissioner. Our community is full of good people doing great things!

The halls were packed with people on opening night. Former classrooms worked perfectly as galleries to display the works of local artists Amy Chapman and Carrie Maurer. We are blessed to have such talented folks living and working in our community.

What were chalkboards in the old elementary school
now make perfect places to display quality art.
The displays on April 12th featured both
photographs and painted pieces.
Visitors admire one of the
largest and most colorful paintings on display.

Upstairs, it's amazing to see how the mix of older vintage facility and newer high tech equipment works to perfection in the theater. Cozy, but cool I'd say...and truly not a bad seat in the house! Other former classrooms on this floor serve as dressing rooms, prop rooms, etc. to support the theater.

Cozy but cool.
The first musical production of the season
was the award-winning "Rent" presented
by the Mid-Life Players.
Patrons who arrived early for "Rent"
had their pick of general admission seats.

Visit their web site or Facebook page to see the list of upcoming events and make plans to visit the Alcott Arts Center sometime soon!


~ Brian

bmckiernan@wycokck.org
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