The Surprise City Council got a look at the future of the Vista Center for the Arts during their April 1 meeting, with results announced from a strategic business operations study led by TheatreDNA and Assembly Arts. The study was aiming to figure out if a presenting program at the Vista, commandeered by the City, could actually make waves. The current stewards of the joint, Dysart Unified School District (DUSD) and The Vista Foundation, seem to agree that, with the City of Surprise's population nudging upward, it's high time to broaden the horizon for the performing arts center, as reported by the City of Surprise announcement.
City Council's not just twiddling its thumbs here–they're already knee-deep in shaping up the City Council Strategic Plan, which this new performing arts angle will nestle into nicely. Over the course of the study, TheatreDNA and Assembly Arts weren't playing solitaire. They looked to local arts and civic leaders and, no surprise, City of Surprise residents, for their take.
The skinny on the report is a recommendation for a partnership model with the City launching a Presenting Division for spruced-up shows at the Vista, and DUSD still holding the reins for educational use. It's basically a pledge to get more bang for the community's buck without booting the district from its educational perch. In what could be called a win-win, this keeps costs on a leash for both the City and Dysart Unified School District, as described by Dysart Unified School District's head honcho, Dr. John Croteau, "This partnership would ensure the longevity of The Vista as an arts venue for our community for many years to come, while still allowing us to focus on education as our primary goal," he told the City of Surprise announcement.
But let's not forget the price tag. TheatreDNA flagged up some critical upgrades at the Vista – think lighting, video, and audio systems that are practically begging for a facelift. The City's wallet will be about $800,000-$900,000 lighter initially, but everyone's got their fingers crossed these costs will be recouped within half a decade. Councilmember Chris Judd added, "Our investment will help create a lasting cultural asset that will strengthen the performing arts in Surprise. By funding key improvements up front, we're positioning Surprise to attract top-tier performances, while also enhancing the high school's performing arts program," accordingly to the City of Surprise announcement.
If the City Council and DUSD governing board decide to join forces, they'll proceed to iron out the details and draft contracts, pushing this performing arts partnership into the limelight. It's an effort to infuse the community with a dose of arts and culture that Mayor Kevin Sartor insists is not just about offering entertainment. "Bringing high-quality arts and cultural performances to Surprise isn’t just about entertainment - it’s about building community, inspiring creativity and, enriching the lives of our residents," Sartor said in the City of Surprise release. And if everything goes to plan, the Vista Foundation will keep on with the advocacy and fundraising to further enrich the venue and its offerings.
