Conley Publishing - Special Sections
Issue link: https://www.ifoldsflip.com/i/290316
236874002 By Nina Matti Conley News Service CEDARBURG — The Cedarburg Performing Arts Center was first envisioned as a way to "Enlighten, edu- cate and entertain" commu- nity members through a variety of productions — everything from orchestra concerts to comedian appearances. After commu- nity members' attempt to raise adequate funds to build a venue able to host such performances, the CPAC was constructed with the help of a Cedarburg School District referendum. Due to the district fund- ing, the venue was con- structed adjacent to Cedarburg High School. Although this was not the initial plan, facility Manager and Programming Coordinator Kathleen Koster said the unique com- bination of school district and community involve- ment allows a "much more convenient ... opportunity for educational outreach." One such opportunity is made available through the Visiting Artist Series, which brings seven performances to the CPAC annually. Each performer not only displays their talents through shows for the community, but also provides special educational opportunities for students throughout the district. According to Koster, it is through the generosity of local business leaders' dona- tions that the CPAC is able to fund programs like the Visiting Artist Series. The most notable and popular of performances thus far, Koster said, have been trumpeter Chris Botti, musician Bruce Hornsby, musical group The Lettermen and comedian and actor Bob Newhart, among others. The venue also plays host to various local school events, such as Cedarburg High School, Webster Transitional School and elementary school con- certs, musicals, plays and talent shows. The first event hosted at the venue was in December 1998, and the CPAC has been "bringing a high quality of entertainment to our com- munity" ever since then, Koster said. Next on the calendar is Simon and Garfunkel trib- ute artist Jim Witter, with his "Feelin' Groovy" show through the Visiting Artist Series. Witter will perform May 16 at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $35 and are available at www.cedarburgpac.com as well as at the Box Office. Cedarburg arts center born from unique school, community partnership Venue hosts performers, educates Conley News Service photo by Mark Justesen 6 • Exploring the Arts • N e w s G r a p h i c & D a i l y N e w s • M a r c h 2 0 1 4