Leesburg Commission Appoints New Chair and Vice Chair Amid Venue Discussions

The Leesburg Performing Arts Commission held a productive meeting on August 28, 2025, focusing on community engagement and upcoming events that will enhance local cultural offerings. A key topic of discussion was the promotion of various events, including the anticipated Christmas tree lighting and the Crossroad Music Festival scheduled for September 20. The festival, which features special guest Andy Summers from The Police, aims to raise funds for local nonprofits and is seen as a significant opportunity for community outreach.

Commission members emphasized the importance of collaboration with local businesses, such as wineries and breweries, to distribute promotional materials and engage a wider audience. The idea of leveraging social media for outreach was also highlighted, with members encouraged to respond promptly to emails and communications to maintain momentum in their initiatives.

In addition to event planning, the commission addressed the need for a local performance venue. Discussions included the recent approval of a new venue by the county, with members expressing a desire to advocate for a smaller, community-focused space in Leesburg. This topic will be revisited in future meetings, as members seek to understand how they can support the development of local arts infrastructure.

The meeting also saw a transition in leadership, with Malika resigning from her position as chair due to personal reasons. The commission nominated and voted for Tony to take over as chair, while Kaylee was appointed as vice chair. This change in leadership is expected to bring fresh perspectives and energy to the commission's ongoing efforts.

As the meeting concluded, members expressed gratitude for the collaborative spirit and commitment to enhancing the arts in Leesburg. The next meeting will include a check-in on attendance and progress on action items, ensuring that the commission remains focused on its goals and responsive to community needs.