Commissioners recommend referral for grant-funded spoken-word project after concerns about amphitheater fit
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Summary
A grant recipient, Larry Harris, proposed a spoken-word and trans-storytellers program but commissioners and staff recommended the smaller Mary Pickford Theatre or LGBT Days partnership rather than the large amphitheater because of intimacy and acoustics concerns.
The Public Arts Commission reviewed a proposal from grant recipient Larry Harris to stage a spoken-word event at the amphitheater using funds from his 25/26 community arts grant. Staff and commissioners questioned whether the amphitheater’s large scale and the festival’s mobile audience would suit an intimate storytelling program.
Commissioners suggested referrals and next steps rather than approving amphitheater use. One commissioner said the proposal was “more appropriate for LGBTQ days,” and commissioners and staff recommended that the applicant work with events staff (Ryan) to explore partnerships with LGBT Days or the Mary Pickford Theatre, which would provide a smaller, more appropriate venue for spoken-word performances.
Staff noted the grant application is in the packet for commissioners to review and suggested the event promoters for LGBT Days could evaluate fit and scheduling. The commission gave direction to refer the applicant to Ryan and the communications/events promoters for possible venue matches rather than proceeding with amphitheater rental under the grant as presented.
Next steps: referral to events/communications staff for venue partnership or scheduling within LGBT Days or at a smaller performance venue; applicant to work with staff on possible alternatives.