Playbill2021 - Flipbook - Page 10
A timeREFLECT
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Despite the unprecedented challenges facing the world since March 2020, the Appell
Center for the Performing Arts has remained ever-focused on its future – economic
sustainability, educational impact and community engagement. The Appell Center has
become known as a jewel in the community since it opened in 1925, and we certainly
want to be sure that jewel continues to shine for all to experience!
2020 provided time for us to re-evaluate and re-imagine the Appell Center’s future.
At the forefront, our mission is to inspire, educate and entertain through professional
performing arts experiences that bring together York County’s diverse voices. While
we have also been faced with the challenge of scheduling and re-scheduling our
performances throughout the pandemic, it has been clear that our audiences recognize
our commitment and will wait as long as they need to come back through the doors
safely. We are encouraged by this loyalty and are excited to finally celebrate the live
performing arts again this coming season.
At its core, the performing arts are about bringing people together. We buy a ticket
and walk into a room with sometimes thousands of people who we do not know.
The lights go down, the curtain up and our focus is shared on the performers, the
music and the story. We laugh together and we stand as one to show our appreciation.
This is the power and joy of going to a live show. And it’s the role – the responsibility –
of the Appell Center to do whatever we can to offer those experiences to everyone of
every background, race, gender identity. A Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Accessibility
Steering Committee is now driving the internal examination of our culture and
practices. The Audience Development Committee is charged with the external
manifestation of that work and how we will engage with the community. We have
participated in the recent YWCA 21 Day Racial Equity and Social Justice Challenge. We
are making plans for training for our Board, staff and volunteers. We are committed to
expanding the diversity and representation of our employees and volunteers. And we
have conducted “Listening Sessions” that are helping us understand the needs, desires
and barriers that members of the community have when it comes to the Appell Center.
