Status update

Our last blog post was May of 2011, but rest assured we have not been idle. In fact, quite the contrary! We hired a fund raising consultant to conduct a feasibility study to determine the viability of a performing arts center on the campus of El Camino High School. First, we have a new website which fully outlines our vision.

Feasibility study results
The consultant conducted private interviews with alumni, business leaders, and community members selected based on their potential ability to donate $100,000 or more to the campaign. The findings of the study indicate that the need is real and the community is intrigued, but the facility must serve the entire San Juan Unified School District—one of ecARTS’ original stipulations. So we’re definitely on the right track.

Lack of performance space
As a follow-up to the feasibility study, we created an exhaustive list of available performance venues within a 10 mile radius of El Camino High School. The results point to a lack of affordable theater space with 500-600 seats for San Juan Unified students.

Arts programs surveys
Additionally, we surveyed the leaders of SJUSD arts programs and community-based arts programs. The overwhelming findings of these surveys indicate that groups are more than ready for a state-of-the-art theater with a professional stage, sound system, dressing rooms, reception area, and enough seats to accommodate audience members.

Where do we go from here?
Divide and conquer is our new mantra.

1.       Based on survey responses, the Design Committee has created a list of features to be included in the performing arts center with relative square footage requirements. Area architects are providing valuable input and cost estimates.

2.       The Communications Committee is working with the Boosters and PTSA at El Camino High School to develop a comprehensive database of alumni and friends.

Tell your friends, SJUSD alumni, and community businesses about ecARTS’ plan to become a hub for the arts in the Arden-Arcade area.