ARTS/West: Athens Community Gateway to the Arts

Access Plan

2008-07-16T18:10:00.003-04:00

Curious about our past and anxious about the future? Check out our ARTS/West access plan.

05_08_accessplan_final.pdf

Free file hosting from File Den

Aquabear

2008-07-12T09:41:00.001-04:00

The Aquabear Legion continues their monthly showcase at ARTS/West in July with Sad Bastards and godversussatan (members of Men of Gentle Birth)!

Come on out and support local music! Support your local Aquabear!

Saturday, July 12, 2008 Doors at 7:30, music at 8pm.

What is an Aquabear, you say?

Based in Appalachian Ohio, The Aquabear Legion provides a community network for creative people. We are dedicated to supporting and enhancing independent music and art in our extended region. We focus on collaborative relationships to create opportunities for independent musicians and artists.

http://www.aquabearlegion.com/

Silent Films

2008-07-10T20:19:00.003-04:00

The OVST performing art camp is underway- having started on Monday and we are all having a good time so far. Dan has become a mother hen to the next generation of techies; Kate, Kate and Connie are doing their thing, and we had a smashing time with Nellie making hats! What will the following two weeks bring? Delight and awesomeness!

We have some new interns and some work studies and things couldn't be better, especially now that we have functioning air conditioning and- (wonder of wonders!) the water pipes are being replaced!! Do you know what that means? That means you will be able to: flush the toilet, wash your hands and then go get a drink of water from the drinking fountain (yes, the drinking fountain, we're kickin' it old school). ARTS/West is ready for all of our many patrons and supporters and we cannot thank you enough for your patience over the past three years.

Tonight some local musicians will be working with a local film maker on his silent film as they use the sound system and projector to add some music. (Sorry kids, this one's private) but we sure hope you'll all come out for the Aquabear Legion showcase on Saturday night at 8pm. Next week will also bring the DIY keg and case homebrew competition on July 16th (see previous post- 21 and over!).

If that isn't enough for you go and check out

Genesis Theater Project presents “The Spitfire Grill”

Performed at Athens First Presbyterian Church, July 10; 11, 12, 13 8:00 PM

All tickets $8.00. Tickets can be purchased at the door on each performance night.

And OVST's presentation of A Secret Garden opens on July 16 (www.ovst.org).

Go see some theater, go see some art, go make a film!

P.S. Please come out, if you are aged 11-7 for the Humble Play Playwriting workshop on July 15 from 1-3. Led by Wendy McVicker and Lynette Peck. This workshop is free but you must register in advance. We will also have a pizza lunch at 12 noon so, come early!

Good News Everyone!

2008-07-08T09:02:00.002-04:00

The ARTS/West facility is proud to tell you that we have AIR CONDITIONING!!! (that works!!) We couldn't be more thrilled!

So, come to the Aquabear Legion: Live at ARTS/West on Saturday, July 12 at 8pm to see Sad Bastards and godversussatan.

We might have a something on July 14- fun for the whole family if I can get it worked out- keep checking.

Then come on down (if you are 21 and older) to The Athens Do It Yourself Shop's 6th Annual Keg and Case Homebrew Competition on July 16 from 5pm-10pm.

Oh, did I mention we have working Air Conditioning? Because, we do.

Athens, Ohio's Brew Week

2008-07-07T12:39:00.003-04:00

To those of you of age for a part of Athens, Ohio's Brew Week: Join us on Wednesday, July 16, 2008 for The Athens Do It Yourself Shop's
6th Annual Keg and Case Homebrew Competition.
$10 in advance to judge, $12 at the door.
Contact Eric at (740) 594-ADIY.
This event is also an Open Stage so, bring and instrument!
www.ohiobrewweek.com

Huzzah!

2008-06-30T12:40:00.002-04:00

Well, we made it through the final, sell-out weekend of OVST's production of Steel Magnolias. The show was fantastic and the ladies are troupers for putting up with the heat under those lights! Good news is; even now people are working over my head to install the new air conditioning units. I am hoping that they don't fall through the ceiling because that sure would be awkward.

Things to keep in mind:
1) New a/c is going to be tops compared to 24 year old a/c!

2) Lynette and Wendy are at the Dairy Barn art center helping the 11-17 year olds with a Humble Play: Youth Division Playwriting workshop.

3) OVST performing art camp starts on Monday. www.ovst.org

4) APE Camp starts on July 28. www.apecenter.org

5) Humble Play application for Adult and Company divisions must be postmarked by July 1. www.myspace.com/humbleplay

6) Aquabear Legions Live at ARTS/West on July 12: http://www.aquabearlegion.com/

Humble Play Workshops

2008-06-26T12:16:00.002-04:00

Hey you 11-17 year kids

It’s not too late to sign up for the

Humble Play: Appalachian new play festival youth division playwriting workshops!

HUMBLE PLAY WORKSHOPS

Where, When, and With Whom

Monday, June 30, 1-3 p.m., The Dairy Barn
Tuesday, July 15, 1-3 p.m., ARTS/West
Led by Wendy McVicker and Lynette Peck
Call ARTS/West (740) 592-4315 to register

Goals and Expectations

The goal of the Humble Play Playwriting Workshops is to help you work toward completing a short play.

You do not need to have begun writing before the first workshop. We’ll spend time talking about the writing process and about the special needs of plays. We’ll read at least one short published play and analyze it as we go. This will help us to develop our critical eye. In order to become good writers, we work on becoming good readers. Then we’ll get started on our own plays.

We’ll give you some things to work on during the two-week break. When we come back together for the second workshop, we’ll look at each other’s work. This can be intimidating, but it can also be fun. AND it’s an essential part of the writing process. The expectation is that this work will be unfinished—so if it’s a page, ten pages, or just one exchange between two characters, that’s fine. It’s where we all begin.

Things to keep in mind

Where do ideas come from?

They come from everyday life! Here’s a suggestion: start keeping a notebook this very minute. Have it with you all the time. Write down ideas, observations, quirky things/people you see, snippets of conversation you overhear. Let your mind go. Explore. Texture is often what makes a play; your everyday observations can provide you with texture, as well as with the larger ideas of plot and relationship.

How do I get started?

Many writers say they don’t think about the final product during the first draft. They don’t think about stage directions, setting, or even plot. They begin with a situation, add some characters, and let them talk. A lot of what emerges won’t make it to the final cut. That’s okay. It’s a good idea not to be too attached to the words that come pouring out in the first draft. The important thing is to let them pour.

What good is criticism?

Criticism doesn’t have to be negative. When we hear others respond to our writing, we enter an outsider’s viewpoint. This can give us sudden and exciting clarity about our work. In the workshop, we’ll talk about ways of using criticism to widen our views and take the creative leaps necessary to progress.

We take it for granted that all criticism is kindly and honestly meant. This is everyone’s responsibility, and one that comes back to us.

The Contract:

We accept absolutely that each and every piece of writing has merit, and it is that merit that we are aiming to locate and help bring to life. We will consider the following questions: What is this piece trying to do? In what ways does it succeed, and in what ways does it need work? How can we help this particular piece to move forward? It is understood that every comment is merely a suggestion; the writer decides which suggestions to take up and which to abandon.

And, don’t forget about:

OVST’s- Summer Youth Theater Program

Ohio Valley Summer Theater presents a new program to nurture students in the development of age appropriate theatrical knowledge and skills. Participants will have an opportunity to explore performance and/or technical production and artistry. Individual growth and development is the goal. Open to primary grade through early high school students, the program will take place July 7-25. Classes will be held M, W, and F, 9am - 1pm. The program will culminate on Saturday, July 26 with a free demonstration performance sharing with family and friends the knowledge and skills learned. Sign-up and fee structure information is available at www.ovst.org.

APE Center- SUMMER THEATER CAMP 2008!!!

The APE Center, with the support from ARTS/West and The Dairy Barn, offers a creative week of self-esteem, cooperation and team-building skills enhancing theater program for children and youth in GRADES K-10. Participants will learn HOW A THEATER SHOW COMES TO BEING – not only through the actors/actresses but
through the efforts of a large team offstage.

The sessions will take place at ARTS/West, every day MONDAY, JULY 28th through FRIDAY, AUGUST 1st from 9am – 4pm, with a free presentation of the SHOWS on SATURDAY afternoon, AUGUST 2nd in ARTS/West. Check their website at www.apecenter.org.

To register, please go to www.apecenter.org. Fill in the "Summer Theater Camp" forms.
For more information, please ask at info@apecenter.org.

Maximum group size for both younger and older children is 15.

For a complete listing of classes, workshops, and meetings please call during our semi-regular office hours Tue.-Fri. 11-4 at (740) 592-4315 or go to www.myspace.com/artswestathens . Check out our blog for all of the latest www.artswest.blogspot.com

Many thanks to The Athens County Convention and Visitors Bureau, the Athens Foundation, The OU Credit Union, The Hocking Valley Bank, The Ohio Arts Council, The Ohio Cultural Facilities Commission, The Ohio University School of Music, Magic Video, our Olympian Founders, individual donors and the time donated by our army of volunteers, for making this possible.

The mission of ARTS/West is to make facilities, resources, and opportunities available to arts organizations, individual artists, and community residents. ARTS/West harnesses community focus for all individuals engaged in the creation, performance and exhibition of the arts and promotes activities preserving the beauty, heritage and culture of our town

The Ohio Arts Council helped fund this organization with state tax dollars to encourage economic growth, educational excellence and cultural enrichment for all Ohioans.

Summer CAMPS!

2008-06-11T16:29:00.003-04:00

ARTS/West is playing host to 2, count 'em, 2 performing arts camps this summer.

1 is hosted by the Ohio Valley Summer Theater (OVST)
1 is hosted by the Appalachian Progressive Education Center (APE Center)
2 are going to be awesome.

OVST’s- Summer Youth Theater Program

APE Center- SUMMER THEATER CAMP 2008!!!

The APE Center, with the support from ARTS/West and The Dairy Barn, offers a creative week of self-esteem, cooperation and team-building skills enhancing theater program for children and youth in GRADES K-10. Participants will learn HOW A THEATER SHOW COMES TO BEING – not only through the actors/actresses but
through the efforts of a large team offstage.

The sessions will take place at ARTS/West, every day MONDAY, JULY 28th through FRIDAY, AUGUST 1st from 9am – 4pm, with a free presentation of the SHOWS on SATURDAY afternoon, AUGUST 2nd in ARTS/West. Check their website at www.apecenter.org.

To register, please go to www.apecenter.org. Fill in the "Summer Theater Camp" forms.
For more information, please ask at info@apecenter.org.

Maximum group size for both younger and older children is 15.

Economic Stimulus

2008-06-09T18:30:00.002-04:00

If you are on the fence about what to do with your Economic Stimulus check I have a great idea- donate it to ARTS/West! Because we are a municipal organization your donations are tax-deductible. Also, we need a new air conditioner so what better time to donate. Still on the fence? Try the following.

ARTS/West, a division of the City of Athens Arts, Parks, and Recreation Department, is requesting $25,000 for the replacement of malfunctioning HVAC systems at ARTS/West.

1. History of the Organization

Mission Statement

The mission of ARTS/West is to make facilities, resources, and opportunities available to artists and community residents of Athens, OH. The facility is a centralized hub situated in an evolving arts district on the west side of Athens. ARTS/West nurtures and facilitates the community’s ability to create, perform, and exhibit art of all kinds, while promoting activities that preserve the beauty, heritage, and regional flavor of our town.

History and Current Activities

In 2004, the Athens Municipal Arts Commission and the City of Athens chartered a task force to find and create a performing arts facility that would fill the void left by the demolition of the old Athens Recreation Center. In 2005, on the advice of The Arts Facilities Task Force and with funding from a community block grant, the City of Athens purchased the former Church of the Nazarene and transformed the sanctuary into a versatile performance space, ideal for music, dance, and theatre performances of all kinds. Since June 2005, ARTS/West has hosted within our facility the Appalachian Regional Theatre Company (ARTCO), The Studio for Young Actors, The Athens Photographic Project, the Ki-En Crew, Ohio Valley Summer Theater, Factory Street Dance Studio, Athenian Players’ Theater, Kid’s Music Club, Wayang Kulit, Inlet Dance Theatre, Athens Vineyard Fellowship, Young Life of Athens County, Hocking Valley Nature Conservatory, The Farm DIY, Noise Shows, Westside Community Association, ANNNA, South Side Community Association, and many more. ARTS/West currently offers educational programs through partnerships with Home Schoolers, Laura Nadeau with Music Together, Front and Center Kid’s Open Stage with Tricia Lachman, and the Appalachian Progressive Education Center. We serve every community theater in Athens, produce an Appalachian New Play Festival each fall, and a Westside Community Art Festival (ARTOberfest) each October.

Project Need Statement

ARTS/West was created to address public concerns over the lack of a facility space capable of serving a variety of performing arts needs, especially following the demolition of the old recreation center on East State Street. Since the creation of the Arts Facility Task Force by the Athens Municipal Arts Commission in 2004 and the subsequent purchase and renovation of the former Nazarene Church that would become ARTS/West in 2005, our facility has held an average of 510 public events per year, serving an estimated 20,000 people each year through classes, workshops, performances, rental activities, and special events.

With the help of a CBGD grant, ARTS/West has recently installed a new boiler system, bringing us from 45% energy efficiency in heating the building to 98% efficiency. While this is an important step in addressing ARTS/West’s sustainability, it is only part of the solution. During performances of Lost Flamingo Company’s Bat Boy: The Musical the ceiling started to leak onto the actors during a scene. The compressors were turned off forcing the capacity audience (175 not including staff and actors) to sit in the performance space for the remainder of the show as temperatures exceeded 84 degrees. In September of 2007, during a performance, two of our HVAC units (installed in 1984) made a loud noise and ceased functioning, leaving ARTS/West without a reliable method of cooling the building or maintaining proper humidity levels in the performance space. Additionally, the performance space is lacking in sufficient insulation in the ceiling structure – leaving us vulnerable to extreme temperature fluctuations during both the heat and the cold. Not only does this present difficulties in keeping our audiences comfortable during the heat of Athens’ summers, but it also presents a danger to the delicate sound and lighting equipment in our space, as well as the baby grand piano that resides on our stage, on permanent loan from Gene Jennings. Replacing and repairing equipment damaged by the unstable temperature in the space is an expense that ARTS/West cannot support on a day to day basis. In order to remain a viable, efficient, and sustainable home for local performing and visual artists, ARTS/West must install new, energy efficient HVAC units in our performance space and new, high-efficiency insulation to protect the space.

Project Description

ARTS/West, located at 132 West State Street, seeks to install new HVAC units to serve our performance space and energy-efficient insulation in the ceiling, allowing us to lower overall energy costs throughout the year.

The Athens Municipal Arts Commission requests a total of $25,000 to fund the purchase and installation of a new HVAC system and insulation, with the goal of lowering overall costs, increasing energy efficiency, and meeting the standards laid out by the Cool Cities Act of the Sierra Club. ARTS/West seeks to have the new system installed immediately, in order that we may be ready for the hot summer months and to prevent and humidity and heat related damage to our sound, lighting, and musical equipment, including the donated baby grand piano.

Objectives

The goal of installing a new HVAC system for ARTS/West is to have a functional air-conditioning system in operation before the warm months of Spring, Summer and Fall, without which it will be impossible for ARTS/West to continue programming. The goal of installing energy-efficient insulation in our performance space is both to protect the electrical and musical equipment in our space from fluctuating temperatures and humidity, while allowing us to lower heating and cooling costs and become a “greener” organization overall. Installing the system and insulation will have several concurrent effects to our operations:

1. It will become a sustainable benefit to the City’s investment in the facility of ARTS/West by allowing us to control the temperature and humidity of the space in a cost-effective manner, while saving on the repair costs that would be incurred by an environment with unregulated temperature.

2. It will allow us to continue to offer programming, including innovative arts education programs through organizations like the Appalachian Progressive Education Center, throughout the hot summer months. The revenue earned from tuition and rental fees from these programs will, in turn, help us remain economically sustainable without becoming a burden to Athens City taxpayers

Project Sustainability

By giving us the ability to produce performances, classes, and workshops year-round, the installation of a new HVAC system and insulation will allow us to continue to generate rental, fee, and tuition income during times when we would otherwise be closed – a portion of which will be allotted within each yearly budget to pay for repairs and maintenance on the new equipment. Additionally, funds from Community Block Development Grants and the Ohio Cultural Facilities Commission have been allotted for the installation of a new boiler (completed September 2007) and new windows (to be completed January 2008), which will contribute to overall energy-efficiency throughout the building and to the longevity of the new HVAC and insulation systems. ARTS/West will also continue to raise community donations with the help of AMAC from direct-mail fundraising campaigns and fundraising events held in the facility to maintain the condition of the building and equipment.

So, what do you think? Please contact Emily, Program Specialist in her office if you think you can help. Then please come and enjoy the Ohio Valley Summer Theaters presentation of Steel Magnolias June 19-29 (www.ovst.org), OVST's summer camp and the Appalachian Progressive Educations Summer Camp.

Thank you!

Baby, it's hot out there

2008-06-07T08:31:00.003-04:00

If you are coming to Bat Boy: The Musical tonight 6/7, at 7pm, (and I really think you should!) dress lightly-it's hot. I'm sorry it is so freakishly hot outside and in the words of Scotty "She [the AC] can't take much more of this!" Now, I'll have to go and watch my Star Trek DVDs to see if Scotty ever actually said that but if he didn't, he would now. I'm not gonna lie to you, even I don't need a sweater in there.

Seriously, we are doing all we can. All the air conditioning units were serviced on Friday and are in as good of working order as they can be. We had a condensation problem on Friday night that should be taken care of today. We have Azaguno day of dance (http://www.azaguno.com/) all day today- Saturday and Lost Flamingo's Bat Boy tonight. Think of it as an Amazonian adventure without the snakes. And bring a personal Church fan.

Love your Bat Boy

2008-05-29T11:08:00.002-04:00

Oh man! How did we get through the last couple of weeks? Not by "blogging" that's for sure-- Sorry!!!

So here's the good jig- this weekend features Bat Boy: the Musical and a Clothing exchange party featuring DJ Barticus! SRSLY!

Thank you to everyone who came out to see Teen Theater Workshop's presentation of "Good Help is So Hard to Murder" weren't they great?

Two of our Padawan's are becoming full blown interns this summer- it is the next logical step so let's all wish Rheal and Rachel the best as they continue to their journey through the wonderful world of arts administration!

Details now:

May 30-31, June 6-7, 7 PM The Lost Flamingo Company presents Bat Boy: The Musical http://www.lostflamingo.com/

May 31, 1-4 PM-Come to for the largest clothing exchange Athens has ever seen! Bring all your unwanted clothing and home items to trade. Entry is $5, and you may take as many items as you bring. Come without any items to trade and each item is $1 without entry fee. $10 dollar fill bags will also be available. All proceeds benefit Rural Action and Federal Valley Resource Center. If you cannot make the event but would still like to donate clothing and home items, two handy collection bins will be available at Arts West and Donkey Coffee. For more information, contact Emily Beveridge @ 740-707-7208 beveridge.emily@gmail.com

2008-05-12T12:32:00.003-04:00

If you are looking at this on Monday, May 12 then you will know that this evening at 7PM you are invited to join us for the opening reception of a selection of paintings and sculptures by Loder Lampela. Live music will be provided by Andrew Lampela of Weedghost, Dinner of Swords, Kid Panda Hands, etc. Mr. Danprince will also be stopping with some baked delights- all are welcome to bring a snack to share.

The display will be available for viewing throughout the month of May during our semi-regular office hours of Tue.-Fri. 11-4.

'Front and Center' free music event for school age kids at ARTS/West, 132 West State St. Athens. Every third Saturday of each month (Sept.-May) at Noon until 1 pm

May 17th guest: Classical Guitarist Paul Richard

Second half of event is always an open stage for any kids, solo or group, to share instrumental or vocal music-- if you choose. Or to just listen and enjoy!

Thank you Warehouse 39

2008-05-06T11:12:00.003-04:00

Thank you to the hoards who came out to see the world premier of Warehouse 39! They did a great job, didn't they. If you want to order a soundtrack and didn't sign up you can contact us in the office and we will put you in touch with the right people!

What shall I do this week you say?
No rest for the weary or, is that wicked, in any case the Athens Music Club will delight us with song on Saturday, May 10 at 8:00 pm.

Then, Monday, May 12 at 7 pm- Art show and opening reception. The art on display is all by Loder Lampela and the music for the reception will be by Andrew Lampela. The display will be up through out May and can also be viewed during our normal office hours T-F 11-4.

May 17- 12-1 brings us the final Front and Center of the season.

We All Love All Musicals!

2008-05-01T16:15:00.003-04:00

"We wish to express our congratulations to everyone involved in the production
of High School Musical. We enjoyed the Friday show immensely and hope to see
you this weekend at our show. Thanks again for supporting us through this
whole process." ~Colin Kruse

Come out and see Warehouse 39 this weekend!!!

The Lusty Month of May

2008-04-30T22:18:00.003-04:00

Warehouse 39 is rehearsing away and they are in super great shape. They are growing teenagers so if you see one- offer them a snack. They've been here since 4pm today and it's about 10:20 now. They all have school tomorrow- What dedication! So, show your support by coming out to see the show on Friday and Saturday, May 2-3 at 8pm and Sunday, May 4 at 3pm. The show is $5. They have a blog up too- see previous post.

No rest for the weary or, is that wicked, in any cast the Athens Music Club will delight us with song on Saturday, May 10 and they will be here rehearsing all next week.

This just in- Art show and opening reception on May 12 at 7pm. The art on display is all by Loder Lampela and the music for the reception will be by Andrew Lampela. The display will be up through out May and can also be viewed during our normal office hours T-F 11-4.

May 17- 12-1 brings us the final Front and Center of the season.

And then come enjoy the Teen Theater Workshop presentation: Good Help is So Hard to Murder by Pat Cook. Friday & Saturday May 23 & 24 7:30pm

A family friendly theatrical murder mystery spoof complete with Parrot, lunatics (assorted) Grim Reaper, fortune telling, poisoning, untrustworthy hired help, family skeletons, and frequent power outages. A not-to-be-missed event!

Then there is a lot more but I don't have my calendar right in front of me! Go see some movies, go see Factory Street this weekend at Stuart's- Yeah Art!

Spring! Plays! Musicals!

2008-04-22T18:23:00.002-04:00

Happy, happy spring- I know I say it every year but it's so nice when it gets here- just at the point when I'm sure spring will never come we are all, suddenly, in our shirt sleeves!

If you missed Actors Moveable Theater's production of PROOF you still have a chance to see it this weekend on Friday, 25 and Saturday, 26 at 8:00 pm. PROOF by David Auburn. For tickets and information call 740-592-3823; actors@columbus.rr.com, http://actorsmoveabletheater.org.

Check out this WAREHOUSE 39 blog- the show is May 2-3 at 8:00 pm. The clips are from their benefit concert. http://warehouse39.blogspot.com/

April = Sweet

2008-04-10T21:50:00.000-04:00

Big Huge thank you to everyone who came out for the Passion Works “My Little Pancake Button” CD release party. It was legendary! The Passion Works art display will be available for viewing for the rest of the month in ARTS/West and I strongly encourage everyone to come and check it out.

Our schedule for the next couple of months is like a finely woven Persian rug and there is certainly something for everyone. Come to one, come to all and check out something you think you might not like- you might be pleasantly surprised!

APRIL

April 12 at 8 PM Warehouse 39 Benefit Concert. Come support your friendly neighborhood rogue musical group! They'll be putting on a show that may or may not include: live music put together by those in the cast of Warehouse 39 and their friends (some show music will be present), as well as On The Rocks. Bring your friends and tell your parents--they will only be asking for donations, so it is an otherwise free show!

April 14 at 4:30 PM Help us to celebrate National Poetry Month by joining us to hear our Ohio Arts Council Artist in Residence, Wendy McVicker reading from her works. This is a free event sponsored by the Ohio Arts Council Artist in Residence program.

April 18-19, & 25-26at 8 PM The Actors’ Moveable Theater presents “Proof” by David Auburn. For tickets and information call 740-592-3823; actors@columbus.rr.com, http://actorsmoveabletheater.org

April 19, 12 PM-1 PM- Front and Center a free music event for school age kids every third Saturday of each month (Sept.-May). Second half of event is always an open stage for any kids, solo or group, to share instrumental or vocal music--if you choose. Or just listen and enjoy! April: Becca Rossiter, a singer songwriter

MAY

May 2-3, “Warehouse 39”- the world premiere of a new musical written and performed by students from Athens High School

May 10- Join the Athens Music Club for a concert and presentation of the letters and music of 1789, as told through the writings of Thomas Jefferson, John Adams and Abigail Adams.

May 17, 12 PM- 1 PM- Front and Center a free music event for school age kids every third Saturday of each month (Sept.-May). Second half of event is always an open stage for any kids, solo or group, to share instrumental or vocal music--if you choose. Or just listen and enjoy! May: Paul Richard on classical guitar

May 23-24, The Teen Theater Workshop’s spring production of “Good Help is So Hard to Murder.”

May 29-30, The Lost Flamingo Company presents “Bat Boy- The Musical”

JUNE

June 6-9, The Lost Flamingo Company presents “Bat Boy- The Musical”

June 19-21 & 25-28 at 8 PM

June 22 & 29 at 2 PM The Ohio Valley Summer Theater presents “Steel Magnolias” by Robert Harling. Visit www.ovst.org for tickets and more information.

Humble Play: Appalachian New Play Festival applications for Adult, Youth and Company are now available in the ARTS/West office or can be downloaded from http://www.myspace.com/humbleplay

If you felt like you weren’t ready for our creative writing class but have heard some many great things about it please come to class now, anyway!

Creative Writing Workshop

led by Ohio Arts Council Artist in Residence Wendy McVicker

Dates: April 7-25, 2008

Time: 10am -12pm or 2pm - 4pm

This is a free workshop

CALL ARTS/West to register (740) 592-4315

Oil Painting Classes

Beginner Classes: Sat. 10:00am -12.:00pm, $50 for 5 weeks

Advances Classes: Sat. 1:00pm-3:00pm, $10 per class

Call Ron for more information and to register (740) 594-2442

Laura Nadeau presents Music Together® in Athens

Contact Laura Nadeau for dates, times, more information and to register www.musictogetherinathens.com

Ongoing:

Last Sunday of the month 6:00 PM-9:00 PM- Experimental-improv music and pot luck dinner. www.myspace.com/artwestnoiseshow

Third Saturday Jan.-May 12:00 PM-1:00 PM Front and Center- Music program and open stage for kids

Many thanks to The Athens County Convention and Visitors Bureau, the Athens Foundation, O’Bleness Foundation, The OU Credit Union, The Hocking Valley Bank, The Ohio Arts Council, The Ohio Cultural Facilities Commission, The Ohio University School of Music, Magic Video, our Olympian Founders, individual donors and the time donated by our army of volunteers, for making this possible.

The mission of ARTS/West is to make facilities, resources, and opportunities available to arts organizations, individual artists, and community residents. ARTS/West harnesses community focus for all individuals engaged in the creation, performance and exhibition of the arts and promotes activities preserving the beauty, heritage and culture of our town

The Ohio Arts Council helped fund this organization with state tax dollars to encourage economic growth, educational excellence and cultural enrichment for all Ohioans.

Class and Pancakes

2008-04-04T16:20:00.002-04:00

April 5th 6-8:30
Passion Works Studio’s second CD, “My Little Pancake Button” will be celebrated at a CD Release Party Saturday, April 5th 6-8:30 pm. Passion Works Studio Artists and Hocking College students have been writing poetry together since 2000. Local musicians transformed their writings into songs and will perform the pieces at the CD Release Party. The Factory Street Dancers & Moving Parts will also be performing and new works of art from the studio will be on display. Admission is free. CD’s will be available for purchase at the event.

Also, our "The Story of Their Life" class which was scheduled for Saturdays 2-3:30 has been cancelled! There are many other wonderful things to do-

A lot of theater

2008-03-28T16:57:00.002-04:00

Hurray for spring! We hope you are having a relaxing time as we ease into the warmer weather. All is not closed this weekend in Athens, come on out to see what your neighbors are doing in a healthy and appropriate way- by checking out some music and community theater offerings- of course!

We have some very compelling and exciting events these coming months. Also, we will begin work on a wheel chair ramp into the basement in mid-April thanks to a generous grant from the Ohio Cultural Facilities Commission. I have been positively assured that this will have a minimal effect on our activities but a huge impact on our ADA compliance! The ramp will also include construction of a handsome out-door patio and I know I am looking forward to that.

Please note we have some class offerings this spring. If you are interested you must register in advance (!!!). If we do not have enough interest classes will be cancelled 48 hours prior to the first meeting.

Humble Play: Appalachian New Play Festival applications for Adult, Youth and Company are now available in the ARTS/West office or can be downloaded from http://www.myspace.com/humbleplay

MARCH

March 27-29 at 8 PM. March 30 at 2 PM.OVST presents “The Glass Menagerie” by Tennessee Williams. For tickets and more information please visit www.ovst.org

APRIL

April 5, 6:00-8:30 PM- “My Little Pancake Button” Passion Works Studio Artists and Hocking College students have been writing poetry together since 2000. Local musicians have transformed these writings into song and will perform the pieces at the CD Release Party. The Factory Street Dancers & Moving Parts will also be performing and new works of art from the studio will be on display. Admission is free. CD’s will be available for purchase at the event.

April 18-19, & 25-26at 8 PM The Actors’ Moveable Theater presents “Proof” by David Auburn. For tickets and information call 740-592-3823; berryfraze@columbus.rr.com

April 19, 12:00 PM-1:00 PM- Front 12:00 PM- 1:00 PM- Front and Center a free music event for school age kids every third Saturday of each month (Sept.-May). Second half of event is always an open stage for any kids, solo or group, to share instrumental or vocal music--if you choose. Or just listen and enjoy! April: Becca Rossiter, a singer songwriter

MAY

May 2-3, “Warehouse 39”- the world premiere of a new musical written and performed by students from Athens High School

May 10- Join the Athens Music Club for a concert and presentation of the letters and music of 1789, as told through the writings of Thomas Jefferson, John Adams and Abigail Adams.

May 17, 12:00 PM- 1:00 PM- Front and Center a free music event for school age kids every third Saturday of each month (Sept.-May). Second half of event is always an open stage for any kids, solo or group, to share instrumental or vocal music--if you choose. Or just listen and enjoy! May: Paul Richard on classical guitar

May 19-25, The Teen Theater Workshop’s spring production of “Good Help is So Hard To Murder.”

May 29-30, June 6-9, The Lost Flamingo Company presents “Bat Boy- The Musical”

NEW CLASSES AND EVENTS

ALWAYS BEING ADDED!

CLASSES

Story of their Life 10-week class

Synopsis: Students go through their life and identify six meaningful/important moments to them. Students will write a play and perform the play based on one moment of their choosing.

Objective: Students will learn how to work together, basic crafting in acting and how to write with specificity. Each student will have authored his or her own five to ten minute play, directed and performed by the students.

Instructor: Kate Scholl Dates: April 5-June 7

Day: Saturday Time: 2:00-3:30 pm

Age: 12-14 Fee: $45.00

CALL ARTS/West to register (740) 592-4315

Creative Writing Workshop

led by Ohio Arts Council Artist in Residence Wendy McVicker

Dates: April 7-25, 2008

Time: 10am -12pm or 2pm - 4pm

This is a free workshop

CALL ARTS/West to register (740) 592-4315

Oil Painting Classes

Beginner Classes: Sat. 10:00am -12.:00pm, $50 for 5 weeks

Advances Classes: Sat. 1:00pm-3:00pm, $10 per class

Call Ron for more information and to register (740) 594-2442

Laura Nadeau presents Music Together® in Athens

Contact Laura Nadeau for dates, times, more information and to register www.musictogetherinathens.com

Ongoing:

Last Sunday of the month 6:00 PM-9:00 PM- Experimental-improv music and pot luck dinner. www.myspace.com/artwestnoiseshow

Third Saturday Jan.-May 12:00 PM-1:00 PM Front and Center- Music program and open stage for kids

For a complete listing of classes, workshops, and meetings please call during our semi-regular office hours Tue.-Fri. 11-4 at (740) 592-4315.

Many thanks to The Athens County Convention and Visitors Bureau, the Athens Foundation, Ohio University Credit Union, The Guthrie Foundation, The Ohio Arts Council, The Ohio Cultural Facilities Commission, The Ohio University School of Music, Magic Video, our Olympian Founders, individual donors and the time donated by our army of volunteers, for making this possible.

The Ohio Arts Council helped fund this organization with state tax dollars to encourage economic growth, educational excellence and cultural enrichment for all Ohioans.

Volunteer Call

2008-03-24T15:13:00.000-04:00

ARTS/West needs volunteers for the following events:

OVST's production of "Glass Menagerie" March 27-29 and 30. We need ushers who can arrive at 7:25 for the 27-29 and 1:25 for the 30th. Duties include: handing out programs, tearing tickets and enjoying the performance.

Passion Works CD release party on April 5, 2008. We need volunteers to help set-up the space during the day on April 5 and ushers during the performance which begins at 6.

Ushers also needed for Actors Moveable Theater's production of the play "Proof" April 18-19, 25-26. Ushers need to arrive at 7:25 PM.Duties include: handing out programs, tearing tickets and enjoying the performance.

Please contact Emily in the ARTS/West office (740) 592-4315 or via email at eprince@ci.athens.oh.us if you are available. I only need 2 per night and it is first come first serve.

OVST presents THE GLASS MENAGERIE

2008-03-21T13:57:00.001-04:00

OVST presents THE GLASS MENAGERIE by Tennessee Williams

In this classic of the American Theater, Tennessee Williams' employs characters drawn from his own family. The mother, Amanda Wingfield (Connie Winters) is a faded southern belle, tenaciously holding on to the ideals of her gentile upbringing. Her terribly shy and crippled daughter, Laura (Kate Enger) lives in a world of her own imagination. The responsibilities of the father are grudgingly shouldered by Amanda’s only son, Tom (Gary Molina). When a nice, normal gentleman caller (Bob Rymer) comes to dinner, he is pounced on by Amanda as a possible husband for her daughter. Laura glows in the attention of the gentleman caller and for a moment the future appears brightly colored.

Bob Winters designed projections for the production. Nellie Werger designed the Depression-era costumes. Dan Prince combines sound elements from the 1945 Broadway production with his own interpretations as sound designer. The scenic concept is by Gary Molina who also directs first offering of the 2008 OVST season.

The Glass Menagerie will run at ARTS/West, 132 W. State Street in Athens,

March 20-22 & 27-29 at 8 p.m., and March 30 at 2 p.m.

General admission is $10. The March 30th matinee is a family performance—one child (under 18) is admitted FREE with each paid adult. Tickets are available at www.ovst.org or by calling 740-593-9696. Tickets available 24/7 on-line.

ORDER TICKETS FROM THE OVST WEBSITE

This weekend and a message from some friends

2008-03-11T10:58:00.002-04:00

March 15, 2008 (now, I know it's the ides but...)
'Front and Center'
free music event for school age kids at
ARTS/West 132 West State St. Athens
Every third Saturday of each month (Sept.-May)
12:00 pm-1:00 pm
March 15th guest: the history of Bluegrass music

with Curt Cable
Second half of event is always an open stage for any kids,
solo or group, to share instrumental or vocal music-- if you choose
Or to just listen and enjoy!

Teen Theater Workshop
Spring Production
Murder Mystery Spoof
Looking for a Director
And Teen (up to 19) Actors
Staging at ARTS/West- May 19-25, 2008
Rehearsals flexible
Preliminary Auditions/planning meeting
Saturday, March 15 3-4pm
Basement ARTS/West 132 W. State St
bring short monologue and ideas
contact Sarah Guthrie
damfarmgirl@gmail.com with questions

MY NAME IS RACHEL CORRIE

"On March 16, 2003, Rachel Corrie, a twenty-three-year-old American, was crushed to death by an Israeli Army bulldozer in Gaza as she was trying to prevent the demolition of a Palestinian home. MY NAME IS RACHEL CORRIE is a one-woman play composed from Rachel's own journals, letters and emails—creating a portrait of a messy, articulate, Salvador Dali–loving chain-smoker (with a passion for the music of Pat Benatar), who left her home and school in Olympia, Washington, to work as an activist in the heart of Israeli-Palestinian conflict. In the three sold-out London runs since its Royal Court premiere, the piece has been surrounded by both controversy and impassioned proponents, and has raised an unprecedented call to support political work and the difficult discourse it creates." – Dramatists Play Service, Inc.

In commemoration of the fifth anniversary of Corrie's death, Stuart's Opera
House will host Up in Arm's* production of MY NAME IS RACHEL CORRIE. Please join us on March 16th for an evening of performance and a post-show talkback.

March 14 & 15 performances will be held at the Hahne Theater, Kantner Hall,
College Street, Athens. All performances are at 7pm.

Produced by special arrangement with Dramatists Play Service, Inc., with the generous support from the Provosts Undergraduate Research Fund and Ohio University School of Theater
*Up in Arms is an Ohio University-based student production company working to promote dialogue, education, and change through art and media. For more information, contact UpinArmsGroup@hotmail.com

Humble Play Applications 2008

2008-03-10T15:20:00.003-04:00

ARTS/West announces applications for HUMBLE PLAY: Appalachian new play festival

ARTS/West, Athens community gateway to the arts, 132 W. State St., is partnering with the Athens Community to present the 3rd Annual HUMBLE PLAY: APPALACHIAN NEW PLAY FESTIVAL this coming September 29-October 4, 2008 and they are pleased to invite submissions from adventurous playwrights, directors, and theater companies.

Acknowledging gifted writers and directors with new plays that speak to a regional audience, ARTS/West will open its doors for these new works September 29-October 4, 2008.

Past participants of the Humble Play include: W. R. Smiddie, That Sheep May Safely Graze 2006 and Frog Hollar, USA 2007; Sarah Guthrie, Liberation 2007, Kathleen Kramer from Ithica, NY, Hearts of Clover 2007 and “Pick of the festival” 2007 Spoiling Prayers by David Muschell from Georgia; just to name a few.

PARTICIPATION: We are seeking plays that will highlight the work and the playwrights, actors and directors of Appalachia generally and Southeastern Ohio specifically. There are three categories this year including: “Playwright”, “Company”, and “Youth Division.” Each division has a separate application and application fee.

A script committee will review each play submitted. Be concise and clear in your application; the committee is interested in your evaluation of the play you’ve submitted, which is where you will impress.

APPLICATIONS: Applications will be accepted from March 11 to July 1, 2008

All applications must be postmarked on or before July 1, 2008
THERE WILL BE NO EXCEPTIONS
Groups and indiviuals may not submit more than two projects and each project must be submitted as a separate application.

Download and application below or, applications will be available at the ARTS/West office, www.myspace.com/humbleplay, and by requesting one via email at artswest@ci.athens.oh.us.

Many thanks to The Athens County Convention and Visitors Bureau, the Athens Foundation, O’Bleness Foundation, The Hocking Valley Bank, The Ohio Arts Council, The Ohio Cultural Facilities Commission, The Ohio University School of Music, Magic Video, our Olympian Founders, individual donors and the time donated by our army of volunteers, for making this possible.

The mission of ARTS/West is to make facilities, resources, and opportunities available to arts organizations, individual artists, and community residents. ARTS/West harnesses community focus for all individuals engaged in the creation, performance and exhibition of the arts and promotes activities preserving the beauty, heritage and culture of our town

The Ohio Arts Council helped fund this organization with state tax dollars to encourage economic growth, educational excellence and cultural enrichment for all Ohioans.

Humble Play - youth submission form.doc

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Humble Play- company app..doc

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Humble Play- playwrights app..doc

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Project ReUse

2008-03-08T14:46:00.002-05:00

Snow, schmo!

Project ReUse is on

March 8 (happy birthday Heather) at 6:00 pm!

This just in, Mayor Paul Wiehl

will be making an apperance as "Guest Celebrity" judge!

It's gonna be sweet. So, we'll see you at 6 tonight!

Project ReUse

2008-03-04T15:30:00.001-05:00