Affiliate Profile: The Playhouse

If you're reading this, you're probably aware that theFund works tirelessly to promote and maintain the arts in San Antonio. We do this by providing financial operating support for twenty six affiliate arts & culutural organizations around town that encourage, teach, and inspire people to express themselves creatively. However, just what exactly do these organizations do? How do they impact the community? Why is it so vital that they receive the support and funding they do? Over the next few months, we'll be profiling each one of our affiliates, so you can find out just how important their role in our city is, and how you can get more involved. With that said, today's affiliate profile is... 

The Playhouse, formerly known as the San Pedro Playhouse, has been a pillar of theatre and the dramatic arts for the past 100 years. Today, it looks forward to many exciting changes as Asia Ciaravino takes the lead role of President and CEO. While she's only been President since May, Asia has over fifteen years experience working for nonprofit organizations, and co-founded San Antonio's Classic Theatre in 1998. In a recent conversation, her dedication soon became apparent as she enthusiastically discussed the transformation of San Antonio's oldest arts organization. 

 At the beginning of the summer the image of The Playhouse began to change, beginning with a new name and logo that celebrate the distinctive building that houses the theatre. While the facade remains the same, however, the inside has been updated. The Cellar Theatre has been cleaned and gutted, old props cleared out, and the walls painted. The lobby is undergoing a dramatic revitalization as it becomes a more comfortable and inviting place for patrons. Asia emphasized that there was a need to "cleanse the space... and make it a safe place to be creative." 

Not all of the changes are merely cosmetic. Two shows have been removed from the 2012-2013 season which will ensure fully developed, quality performances. "Every action we've taken is forward thinking and done with love," says Asia. 

So with all of this said, what else does The Playhouse do besides put on great performances? Education plays a large role in the culture of the theatre. Over 100 children take part in summer classes, performances and workshops. Grants and scholarships are provided to approximately 10% of their students. Aside from being terrific sources of fun and creativity, these classes train the next generation of actors, technicians, directors, and artistic visionaries that will continue enriching our community. 

If you haven't already, make sure to check out The Playhouse's new season (season passes are still available!). This summer, productions of Hello Dolly and Little Dog Laughed will open, providing an excellent opportunity for superb theatre, as well as a chance to check out the updated facilities. Also keep your eye out for The Playhouse's Centennial Celebration on September 6th, which will feature musical numbers, refreshments, and general merriment. Tickets for this fundraising event can be purchased at on their website beginning July 20th. 

For more information on The Playhouse:

• visit www.theplayhousesa.org 
• email info@sanpedroplayhouse.com
• call at 210-733-7258
• drop by 800 West Ashby, San Antonio

The Playhouse is one of theFund's 26 qualified affiliates.

Meet Fund Board Member - Mike Gifford

 

Mike Gifford joined theFund Board as a Director in 2006.  Currently he is the IT Risk Sr. Manager - Disaster Recovery / Access Administration at The Capital Group Companies.

"The arts have always played an important part in my life and I can't imagine being in a community that doesn't offer a wide variety of culture and artistic opportunities.   For me, I strongly believe in theFund's mission and being part of theFund Board gives me a chance to directly support theFund's 26 affiliates and other artistic organizations in the San Antonio community."  

1.  Why did I choose to become involved on the Board of theFund?

"I believe that the citizens and visitors of San Antonio will greatly benefit and be enriched by a thriving arts and cultural community.  As a member of theFund Board, I have the opportunity to work with many great community leaders who share the same passion for the arts as I do!  It is our way of giving back to our community."

2.  What advice do you have for those from the business community who are interested in becoming more involved in their arts community?

"Although it may seem like a difficult decision to make, especially when discretionary funds are so limited,  two ways the business community can become more involved in the arts community is to partner with theFund to identify ways they can support one or more of theFund's 26 affiliates to create volunteer opportunities or even better, offer to host an employee giving campaign."

3.  Can you give an example of how the arts can effectively change business practices?

"Each day I have the privilege of working in an environment that displays original art work.  In 1968, the Capital Group Companies began acquiring original artwork for its offices around the globe.  The goal of the extensive private collection is to enhance the work environment while inspiring reflection and creative thinking.  We have sponsored new artists of all media.  In 1982, Capital established a nonprofit art foundation to share the private collection with the public."

Meet our Intern, Adrienne Teeley

I was exposed to art at an early age, and I wholeheartedly believe that exposure has shaped who I am today. I am so thankful that my teachers and parents recognized the value and importance of the arts, and encouraged me to find my own means of creative expression. I don't think that that kind of encouragement should be left to chance, however. There is a good possibility I might have never been introduced to theatre or creative writing, two outlets that have enabled me to become secure and comfortable in who I am.

This is why I believe that the growth of the arts in cities such as ours is vitally important. From summer camps to free museum admission days to writing workshops, San Antonio has a wealth of resources to introduce, cultivate, and celebrate creativity. These programs have the potential to change someone's life for the better, and undeniably have the power to bring even more depth and passion to the city.

I recently graduated from Trinity University with a degree in Art History and a minor in Theatre. After thinking seriously about career plans, I began searching for nonprofits that encouraged artistic growth. When I found
theFund, with its twenty six affiliate organizations, I knew it was an organization I wanted to support. Recently, I accompanied Rod to a fundraising presentation at the Courthouse. It was so inspiring to see how committed the audience was to supporting the arts, and how special it is that theFund is kept alive by the contributions of many San Antonio residents who believe creative opportunities are worth supporting. Knowing that kind of dedication is alive and well makes me proud to be apart of such a community.