Truckee Meadows Community College is canceling its lease at its Keystone Avenue Performing Arts Center. The college’s performing arts program is holding its last play, “Almost, Maine,” at the center starting April 5, 2019.
Play director Stacey Spain called the production “…a series of scenes about love in all its iterations.” It is set in the mythical town of Almost, Maine with residents who fall in and out of love in unexpected and unusual ways.
Shows will be at 8 p.m. on April 5, 6, 11, 12 and 13. Matinee times (2 p.m.) are on April 7 and 14. Tickets can be purchased at www.showtix4u.com or by calling 775-674-7610.
As first reported in ThisisReno last year, TMCC is not renewing its lease at the Keystone location for financial and safety reasons. Although considered by the college as far back as 2015, TMCC President Karin Hilgerson surprised faculty last year by quietly deciding not to renew the lease.
“The TMCC president just days ago made a decision to not renew the lease for the (Redfield Performing Arts Center)…” one instructor noted. “I was frankly surprised by the decision and (will meet) with the president next week to better understand her vision for the performing arts for the next few years.”
Other comments about the decision prompted TMCC Visual Arts Department Chair Ron Marston to explain his view of what happened.
“I didn’t participate in the discussion or the decision, nor did any other faculty. The news was unexpected and probably caused some sleepless nights for some of my performing arts faculty when I informed them (certainly it has for me),” he said. “Undeniably some perceive an environment of mistrust and misinformation. I think this has always existed to varying degrees at TMCC, and probably always will.
“I believe the upper administration should set the tone for inclusive collaborative honest leadership, and faculty and staff have to do their part in that effort as well, to improve both the perception and the reality of the quality of our working environment.”
Productions after this semester will be held at area high schools.
“The final curtain / last event will be our Spring Dance Concert in that location on Sunday, April 28 at 2 p.m.,” said TMCC spokesperson Kate Kirkpatrick. “A faculty-led taskforce comprised of building occupants, faculty, and staff reviewed various options and proposed collaborating with community partners.
“Future productions will partner with local high schools to perform co-presentations that will engage high school students, community members, and college students in the future of [TMCC’s performing arts program].”
