“This is your theater. We perform for you, our dear public.”
Kleine Borgman, Intendant, Städtische Bühnen Osnabrück.
Certain messages resonate deeply, staying with us for a lifetime. One such quote has lingered in my mind for nearly 30 years. When I first encountered these words, I found them perplexing, as I had never viewed theater through that lens. However, after experiencing the performance of “Grease” at SKyPAC in Bowling Green, Kentucky, I’m beginning to grasp the profound significance of that quote.
Describing SKyPAC as a miracle feels like an understatement. During my years performing in theaters across Germany, from major cities to smaller towns, I was always struck by the sense of belonging that audiences felt toward their local theaters. It was always a dream of mine that something like that could be done in Bowling Green, but I never thought it was something people here knew to be interested in, because I certainly knew nothing of such institutions growing up. However, now in my hometown, where once there was no such organization, stands a modern theater that is becoming an integral part of our community’s identity.
I wonder if local residents fully appreciate the impact of this development. People are flocking to SKyPAC for a variety of productions, concerts, and events, and I commend everyone involved in creating this remarkable center for the arts. It is a monumental achievement.
My hope is, that the community and the surrounding region embrace this opportunity to cultivate a shared history and rich tradition, creating incredible memories together as both producers and audiences over the coming millennia. There may not be a definitive recipe for success in this endeavor, but it is a beautiful mess that culminates in performances that spark joy for an evening and leave lasting impressions on the soul.
The arts, particularly live performances, are not without their flaws. Sometimes things don’t go as planned, yet we cherish these moments because they reflect the genuine effort of artists striving to bring something special to life. This vulnerability is a rare gift in a world often dominated by façades.
So, I encourage you: visit your local theater. Enjoy it, support it, become part of it, and take ownership of it. It is “your” theater. It is worth every moment.
