“It’s an on-going process. It is a project in the making.” John Patsalides, new director of the Board, said of the Bradford Arts Centre.
After two years, the centre is reviewing its direction and looking to the future, he said.
“Given our scant attendance at some events, how can we promote the Bradford Arts Centre? How can we promote our events?” Patsalides wondered, noting that the board hopes to attract volunteers who can put the centre on a stronger footing and reach a wider audience.
The Bradford Arts Centre, located at 66 Barrie St., had its start as an outreach of the Bradford United Church. It resulted from the vision of Rev. Jim Keenan, who felt that the outstanding acoustics of the church could be developed into an intimate performance space. The idea was to support the arts in Bradford West Gwillimbury – especially young, emerging artists.
After renovations, the installation of a new sound system, and donation of a baby grand piano, the Bradford Arts Centre was launched. It did attract new talent, including pianist Vladimir Soloviev, and singer Amelia DePiero, but it had mixed success in attracting audiences.
The Board of Directors is now looking for volunteers with the background and ability to take on Information Technology and Media; Marketing and Publicity; and Program Planning for the Centre. The Bradford Arts Centre needs a strong, up-to-date presence online and on social media, well-organized promotion and ticket sales, and programming that connects with the community, said Patsalides.
The volunteers who fill those positions will need strong communications skills, leadership skills, and the ability to network and understand the community.
“It requires some commitment, and a belief in the concept. One must support culture in BWG,” said Patsalides.
He noted, “We have a diverse community” but so far the Bradford Arts Centre has focused primarily on music and, except for the SYCA (Supporting Youth & Community through the Arts) program, primarily on an older segment of the community. He said the board is hoping to reach out to a “wider public, a younger public.”
In particular, Patsalides would like to see a partnership with the town’s secondary schools.
“We have two great high schools. Where are those kids?” asked Patsalides. “What a wonderful opportunity for the music departments to give a show, to perform outside the school environment, the parameters of a school music night or arts night.”
The Bradford Arts Centre has a strong line-up over the next few months.
On Saturday, Sept. 29, the centre will partner with the BWG Diversity Action Group for “A Taste of Bradford”, and Peace Tree Day Celebration. Doors open at 5:45 p.m., celebrating diversity with food, music, dance, and a discussion featuring guest speaker Bernie Farber, former CEO of the Mosaic Institute, and an authority on hate crimes.
In October, the centre hosts a performance of the York Chamber Choir; in December, The Treblemakers encourage the audience to sing along; and in February, pianist Soloviev returns. But beyond February?
The Bradford Arts Centre, 66 Barrie St., is “a baby that we have to nurture. Two years in the land of organization is nothing. It is a story and a saga, and the epic is unfolding. It is an epic endeavour,” said Patsilides. “The purpose is to promote local youth talent.”
To get involved and help build the Bradford Arts Centre, volunteers can contact [email protected] or 905-751-5335.
