5Q: Anthony R. De Luca

PBN PHOTO/MICHAEL SALERNO
PBN PHOTO/MICHAEL SALERNO

1Tell us about the upcoming concert on Aug. 15?

The concert will be the first time that the Ocean State Summer Pops Orchestra has performed at [Ocean State Theatre Company in Warwick]. … This concert will include a variety of light, classical pieces … as well as many other selections.

2What makes the orchestra different from others in the area?

OSSPO is unique because we’re a seasonal ensemble, operating almost exclusively during the summer months. When other local ensembles are wrapping up their performing seasons in May and June, we’re just beginning ours. Another area of special note is our focus on children’s “education through music.”

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3How has concert attendance been this past year compared with previous years?

There are two broad performing venue categories for the orchestra where we track attendance: Sponsored outdoor concerts which are free to the public, and indoor concerts where patrons purchase tickets. Outdoor concerts are underwritten by municipalities or corporate sponsors, are free to the public, and consistently draw large audiences. … Indoor concert attendance is tracked very closely, and we’ve seen a steady increase over the past several years.

4How well-positioned is the OSSPO for future growth?

Our focus is on performing at venues where a larger orchestra would not fit, or would be cost-prohibitive. Our ability to expand into additional outdoor performing venues is wholly dependent upon individual, corporate, or municipal underwriting of those events. Although these concerts are offered as “free to the public,” [they] may cost upwards of $25,000 to produce. … Contributions in support of our concerts and operations are vital to the health and stability of this organization.

5How has business support been over the years compared with individual donations?

Over the years, direct donations from individuals have greatly outweighed donations from local businesses. Businesses have traditionally shown their support through the placement of sponsor ads in our seasonal program books, or through indirect means such as advertising via Cardi’s Furniture. One challenge that we consistently run across is that the larger local businesses already sponsor the older, more established arts organizations. •

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