A Message From Our CEO + A Plea to Support The Arts
Dear Patrons,
During this incredibly difficult moment in our history, we are thankful to have you as part of the Basie family. I am writing to you to give an update on what is happening at the Count Basie Center for the Arts.
Currently, the historic theater is dark, and performances are postponed until we can gather together once again. Despite this, our students and patrons can count on us to fulfill our mission to educate, inspire and entertain.
I am proud to share that the Basie Center Academy of the Arts quickly and successfully pivoted to virtual classrooms so that music lessons can continue for students. Our Broadway, Jr. auditions will happen virtually, and our teaching artists are producing short videos on how parents can engage their children in the arts while at home. Virtual visual arts, drama and dance classes will soon be available online for students of all ages. Our commitment to and delivery of arts education will not waver.
Our social media platforms are now a place where our patrons can find inspirational messaging and be entertained by clips from classic Basie concerts. Soon, student performances and films from across the region will be online to inspire us as well. We’ve seen it happening across the globe—music and the arts bring us together and continue to be a universal symbol of hope.
Now, more than ever, we need the performing arts to usher us through.
For years, the Basie Center has been a place of joy. To our ticketholders whose shows are postponed, we can’t wait to open our doors to you again soon. If you are unable to attend on the rescheduled date, we hope that you will consider accepting a credit towards a future show or donate your ticket purchase to help our not for profit mission.
It is hard to ask during uncertain times, but the support of our patrons, through ticket sales, membership donations and charitable gifts, are now the lifeline of our organization. If you are able to support, please know that any amount is needed and appreciated.
In the coming days and weeks, you’ll continue to receive emails on upcoming performances and education offerings — because if there is one thing we know, it’s that our community will need the Basie Center to be here and ready to welcome you back.
We know that through patience and resiliency, we will once again gather under the glorious dome of our historic theater. Until then, thank you for entrusting us to be your source of education, entertainment and inspiration during a very difficult time.
From all of us at the Basie, be safe and stay well
Adam Philipson
President and CEO