From: Lawrence J. Fried, Executive Director, Bellevue Philharmonic
[ website ]
August 14, 2006
Mr. Skip Rowley
Chairman of the Board
Performing Arts Center Eastside
PO Box 828
Bellevue, Washington 98004
Dear Mr. Rowley:
The Bellevue Philharmonic enthusiastically supports the development of the Performing Arts Center Eastside (P.A.C.E.) After so many years of preparation, it is now time to bring this regional vision to reality. As the Eastside's only professional orchestra, the Bellevue Philharmonic has a critical need for a full-sized, modern concert hall. By moving all of our concerts to P.A.C.E., the Philharmonic will be able to grow both artistically and in the quality and scope of our services to the community.
This will happen in at least five areas: (1) with a full-size stage, we can perform many of the symphonic works which we are unable to perform at our current venue; (2) we will establish a Symphonic Pops Series, enabling us to not only serve a much more diverse audience but also provide much-needed revenues; (3) we will establish a weekend Family Concert Series, attracting young audiences to the Philharmonic; (4) we can expand and develop our already-existing Young People's Concerts for school groups since P.A.C.E.'s larger stage will allow us to use guest performers and ensembles – such as dance groups – which can not do at our current venue; (5) we can fulfill the dream of creating a Bellevue Philharmonic Chorus, drawn from the greater Eastside community, to perform large-scale choral works, which we can not do in our present venue.
Since P.A.C.E. will be located in the heart of downtown Bellevue, it will have an enormous impact on our growth and development, particularly by increasing audience visibility. We are all eagerly awaiting its opening. If there is any way in which the Philharmonic can help, please do not hesitate to contact me. I wish everyone associated with P.A.C.E. all of the very best for success.
Sincerely,
Lawrence J. Fried
Executive Director
Bellevue Philharmonic