Over 50,000 students, 10,000 low-income families, and 1,000 military families have experienced professional performing arts at little to no cost because of Friends of Miller. In addition, Miller has donated tickets to organizations like Big Brothers/Big Sisters, The Boys and Girls Club, Lakeside Academy, and Headstart so more than 10,000 at-risk youth could attend performances.
Rob Pennock, director of business operations for Miller Auditorium, says the arts are vital to the overall development of children.
“Studies show that kids who are actively involved in the arts perform better in math, science and English,” Pennock explained. “With budget cuts to public schools eliminating the arts for many, it is more vital than ever for organizations such as Miller to provide quality exposure to the arts through attendance at shows and educational programs that include direct interaction between artists and students. Exposing them to the performing has and will continue to help develop their minds and their imagination. Open minds are great minds.”
Friends of Miller donations have also helped to secure funding for facility improvements including upgrades to the sound system and replacing outdated lighting with new state-of-the-art and energy efficient instruments.
Most theatres across the country receive 30% of their support through donations. Currently, Miller receives only 5% of its support from private donations and sponsorship. Becoming a Friend of Miller will help to close that gap, allowing Miller Auditorium to continue to offer educational programs to area youth, maintain a state-of-the-art facility, bring the best entertainment to Southwest Michigan, and to maintain affordable ticket pricing.
Pennock notes that process is somewhat circular. Technology helps bring in acts, which help to generate revenue.
“With all the changes in the last 10 years with technology, we must continue to evolve our capabilities and switch to the all-digital world of today. Artists and major Broadway continue to ask for the newest technologies, Pennock Says. “In order to continue to attract the best of the best we must adapt—newer equipment will help us bring the better shows to West Michigan and at the same time help us generate the revenue that allows us to provide the community with more educational programs and the other amenities that make Kalamazoo such a great place to live. “
Friends of Miller works to ensure a healthy future for the arts in Kalamazoo. To learn more about how your donation can help, please click here.