Lights, Camera—METROPOLIS

Jim Bertucci introduced this week’s speaker, Matt O’Brien, the new Executive Director and Producer at the Metropolis Performing Arts Center. Matt told us about the exciting programs and growth at our own Arlington downtown theatre destination.

His chorus and back up at today’s meeting were long-time supporter, Kris Stabler; driving force of the Metropolis board and theater, and its president, Monica McCarthy; Mary Ann Flynn, board treasurer; and Bob Paddock, Jr., Vice President.

Metropolis has become a key part of the business and entertainment scene in Arlington Heights, and a remarkable success in the theatre community. The village estimates that it brings in about $4,200,000 of additional revenue to the community annually. Audiences have built steadily over the years and number more than 75,000 today. For a young organization, Metropolis has afforded quality theater at reasonable prices, Matt said.

Only behind the likes of the venerable Goodman, Looking Glass, Northlight, the acclaimed Steppenwolf and Chicago Shakespeare theaters, Metropolis is number nine in budget amount. “In eight years, Metropolis has gone from nothing to a projected budget next year of over $2.8 million. Think back to those other organizations that have 20 or 30 years more time in business and are just a little ahead of us budgetarily. Pretty cool stuff . . . .”

He pointed out that the “Center” is also home to the Metropolis Youth Symphony and the Metropolis School of the Performing Arts. The theatre’s subscription season is the core of the 300 performances each year with four plays and musicals. Jazz, classical music, Second City comedy as well as special events and performances fill the rest.

There are over 2,000 students in music, drama and dance programs, and over 3,000 students participate in outreach programs. The “Stories in Action” series has brought in 20,000 students from area schools this year.

Matt sees the future as one of expanding the audience (the “house” being on average approximately 70% full now) and “growing our actors,” bringing quality productions and performers to entertain and expand the appreciation of the audiences.

“See a show – take a class! There are over 320 performances every year.” There are opportunities for charity events as well. On stage now is Sylvia, a comedy about a man’s mid-life crisis . . . leading to a Labradoodle instead of a red Mustang. Maybe we should keep this alternative in mind, fellow Rotarians !