Green light continues for arts center, although budget remains in the red
By Sylvie Belmond belmond@theacorn.com

About 6,800 patrons have come through the doors of the High Street Arts Center since the entertainment venue was acquired by the city a year ago.

Overall, the center performed as expected for its first theater season, said Davie Moe, redevelopment manager for Moorpark. The theater was purchased by the city for just over $1 million.

As of June 20, revenues were $88,871 and expenditures totaled about $301,500. The Redevelopment Agency funded the overhead.

The agency committed to support the art center for a three-year period to create a catalyst for the revitalization of the High Street area, said Hugh Riley, assistant city manager. Profits will need to increase every year to sustain the operation in the long run, he said.

"So far, the progress toward establishing a community and regional arts center has been excellent," said Clint Harper, member of the Moorpark Arts Commission.

Theater manager L.J. Stevens praised city leaders and staff for their foresight in helping the arts to flourish in Moorpark.

"The performing arts provide a means to reach out, bringing sweet memories to older audiences and exposing fledgling patrons to new experiences," Stevens said, adding she has received good feedback on the performances.

"As the city grows, residents look to embrace one another culturally; this city has a unique combination of a rich history and a burgeoning renewal," said Stevens, who aspires to serve a diverse audience.

"We're providing the community with a very high standard of production, and the community is responding by returning, production after production," she said.

Since it landed into city hands, the old venue has also undergone a face lift and upgrades that enhance the quality of the shows and the experience for patrons.

"Stevens has done an excellent job so far," said Harper.

"Barnum," the first show of the season, earned $17,639 during its six-week run. "Always Patsy Cline" also ran successfully and yielded $14,000 during nine performances.

The 200708 season will cater to everyone in and around Moorpark.

"We encourage all to participate, whether as a talent, a volunteer or a patron," Harper said.

The next production, "Bye Bye Birdie," is a dynamic musical satire that fondly tells the story of a rock 'n' roll singer who is about to be inducted into the army. The show opens on Aug. 10 and runs through Sept. 16.