Since 2008, the folks at Regency in Haymarket have been taking strides to promote awareness of the soon-to-be-opened Hylton Performing Arts Center at the George Mason University Manassas Campus, and they have had a good time doing it by holding "friendraisers."
Friendraisers are house parties, also known as "circle of friends" parties, said Mary Postma, chair of Regency's Friends of the Hylton Performing Arts Center (FOHPAC).
At a friendraiser, Regency residents come out to socialize with neighbors and discuss what they would like to see at the Hylton Performing Arts Center. Representatives and musicians from George Mason University also attend the parties, providing information and entertainment.
Shirley White, a proponent and member of FOHPAC, recalled one house party that was attended by local opera singer Angela Knight and Jean Kellog, the center's executive director.
"It was fun because [Knight] would explain it, and you could see the life of it," White said of the music.
When the center was in its planning infancy, Regency residents became interested, according to Postma. Some wanted to learn more, others wanted to be sure their voices were heard.
"Some people said they were afraid it would be too highbrow, some too lowbrow," Postma said.
Residents expressed interest in a range of entertainment including bluegrass, ballet, opera, classical and jazz.
"They wanted a mix, and that's what we're going to be getting," Postma said.
Admission price has also been a concern. FOHPAC wants "to make sure we have the type of music people want at prices people can afford," Postma said.
Tickets between $30 and $40 is the goal. Children's tickets would be free or reduced, making the center family friendly and accessible.
In addition to friendraisers, FOHPAC has helped sponsor fundraisers which will have generated about $5,000 prior to the center's planned opening gala May 21 through 23.
FOHPAC members have also participated in the center's "Take a Seat" campaign where donors or their loved ones will be honored with a name plaque on a seat in the orchestra section. The $2,500 donation may be paid immediately or over the course of five years.
The Hylton Performing Arts Center has a Facebook page and a Web site, easily accessible by searching "Hylton Performing Arts Center."
To find out more about FOHPAC, call 571-2615614 or e-mail mary@mary postma.com.
Katherine Gotthardt is a contributing writing for the News & Messenger.
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