Time between vision and reality completion of an outdoor performance area at Powell River Academy of Music spanned more than a decade. Final touches are being undertaken in preparation for an official opening and naming ceremony on Monday, June 25.
According to Don James, academy founder and chair of the board, 12 years ago now retired administrator Terry Sabine submitted one of many grant applications she handled for many years. Presented to Vancouver Foundation, it called for either repaving the academy’s parking lot or building an outdoor performance venue.
“It’s no surprise that the Vancouver Foundation chose to support an outdoor performance venue,” said James.
Sabine asked David May for ideas and he presented her a sketch. Volunteers, including Brendan Allen, Doug and Tyler Lanigan, Mark Cariou, Mel Low and others, rendered the sketch from paper to reality. Then other academy priorities meant completion was delayed.
This past year with the support of Powell River Community Forest, the performance venue was revitalized, including painting the back wall of the academy, installing railings, adding topsoil, plants and a watering system, installing a low upkeep seating area, painting the venue structure and adding sound shells.
Academy administrator Carrie Lanigan oversaw the project, booking tradespeople and suppliers. They included Steve Tipton, Adams Concrete, Springtime Nursery and Hot Water Works. Their work was supported by academy volunteers Dal and Kay Matterson, Lanigan and her husband Doug, Dan Dyble and his digger, Pam Wadden, Walter and Marcello Martella, Tom Koleszar, Bill Evans, Sabine and James.
“The acoustics are very good and the sound carries incredibly well,” said Walter Martella, who will conduct Chor Musica men’s choir at the official opening as well as perform himself. He is looking forward to having Sunday afternoon performances at the venue during good weather.
“We’re all grateful to people who support the academy with funding and the gift of volunteer hours,” he said.
The opening takes place just a week before International Choral Kathaumixw 2018 starts on July 3. Staff and volunteers are currently busy with final preparations for the festival that takes place every two years.
Opportunities are still available to host overseas choir members and learn a different culture. More information is available by calling Val Thompson at 604.485.9633.
Powell River Academy of Music Outdoor Performance Area Opening
When: Monday, June 25, 7 pm
Where: Powell River Academy of Music
Information: powellriveracademy.org, 604.485.9633
