There is exciting news from the Roxbury Arts Group (RAG).  We are about to engage in a new chapter of development for our community arts center.  During 2008, two very exciting programmatic and administrative changes will take place :

(1)   As of April 2008, we will take over the programming activities in the buildings that were occupied by the Stamford Performing Arts Center.     We are in the process of hiring a  Program Coordinator for that venue to plan and execute a comprehensive arts program that will include workshops, performances and exhibitions.  The Program Coordinator will form an Advisory Board to ensure that programming is responsive to the needs of the Stamford community, and we will begin our program delivery once this process is underway.. This effort is funded through the Robinson Broadhurst Foundation of Stamford, NY and the O’Connor Foundation of Delaware County.

(2)   RAG is also merging with the Denver Vega Conservation Committee and will take ownership of assets and responsibility for the care, preservation and maintenance of this     the First Old School Baptist Church a beautifully restored historic building in the breathtakingly beautiful Vega Valley.  This lovely venue is perfect for chamber music and will greatly expand RAG’s programming possibilities.      

We recently surveyed our loyal audience through an online survey tool and received many helpful responses.  Your feedback has helped us to plan our programs for 2009 and we actually will incorporate your suggestions during this program year of 2008, whenever possible.  We are also using that feedback in our ongoing strategic planning process, involving our Board of Directors and program staff.  Thank you for taking the time to participate.

We have a great performance and exhibition lineup this year and the real action will begin during March when we have two great groups, Black 47 and Tanglefoot, playing back to back weekends.  You can see both of these acts for $25.00.  When you come for the performances please check out our newly renovated bathrooms and kitchen.  Both of these renovations were accomplished with the help of O’Connor Foundation grants and private donations.

None of these improvements or the current expansion would have happened without your financial support and your loyal participation.  It is this level of community involvement that helps an arts program thrive and expand.  We hope that you will enjoy what we have in store at all three of our locations this coming year and we promise to remain open to your suggestions for future programming.

Best to you,

Susan Jean Kenny