Breaking News update...
The Center for the Arts plans to build its auditorium on the western edge of the Ft. Vancouver National Historic Site, on the site of the police station just west of the General O.O. Howard House. A proposed partnership with the Ft. Vancouver Historic Trust is being considered by the Center for the Arts Board. A Memorandum of Understanding, presented by Elson Strahan, CEO of the Trust, on behalf of the Trust Board, to further define the relationship, is being discussed by the Center Board.
The potential partnership with the Fort Vancouver National Trust has many benefits for both parties. The Trust would have access to a venue which could showcase its activities. Tracy Fortmann, Superintendent of Ft. Vancouver National Historic Site is also very supportive of this effort. Currently she has a limited space to make presentations to the many school children who visit the Fort every year. The Center for Arts would benefit from the expertise of the Trust staff and from the positive image the Trust enjoys in the community. It would be the centerpiece of an arts and education center on the Reserve.
The Center for the Arts Board now needs community support to acquire staff, to draw up plans and to raise funds to construct and operate the Center. This is a crucial time for the Center for the Arts organization and we are determined to move ahead.
~~Val Ogden, Chair, February 21, 2012
A CASE FOR THE SOUTHWEST WASHINGTON CENTER FOR THE ARTS
Vancouver needs a performing arts center. Vancouver is the fourth largest city in Washington and the only city of its size without an auditorium that is owned by a local jurisdiction or a non- profit organization. In fact, many smaller communities boast of having excellent performing arts centers. The population of Clark County, of which Vancouver is a major political and cultural part, is over 400,000. A performing arts center would draw a significant portion of that population to each of its activities.
Presently there is a very limited supply of venues suitable for performing groups. Performances take place in public school facilities, (which are available for non-school uses on a limited basis) churches, and other “found space”. The Vancouver Symphony uses Skyview HighSchool auditorium.
There is widespread support for building a performing arts center. A survey conducted by AMS, a nationally recognized consultant on the arts, found that community members in Vancouver believe that performing arts center would be a major asset for the community. They also felt that a performing arts center would not be duplicative of present facilities.
Studies have shown a direct economic impact from a vibrant arts scene. A study released in June, 2007, showed arts and culture organizations generated more than $318 million in the three Portland metropolitan counties. In addition they attract tourists from outside the community, thus providing additional business for local restaurants and hotels.
What remains missing from the current facility “mix” in Vancouver is a first-class facility for concerts, theatrical performances, touring shows and public assembly functions. Perhaps the greatest need is a facility that serves as the focal point in the community for special performances and events. This will enable residents to attend events of a high quality without having to cross the river.
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