Rick Davis is the Executive Director of the Hylton Center.
As I write these words, the earth has just given us the first taste of coming attractions – a night with temperatures in the 50s (out where I live, anyway), and a day of clear, bright air, what we call “CAVU” – Ceiling and Visibility Unlimited – around the airfield. I can’t vouch for the ambient conditions right now as you read this (probability suggests it may be hot and humid with thunderstorms in the vicinity), but that first cool night and crisp day always serve as a marker, a guarantee that change is in the wind.
September also brings the start of a new season at your friendly neighborhood world-class performing arts center. And change is in the wind, the ground, the walls and the halls.
Our fall programming at the Hylton Center has never been richer, more diverse, more lustrous, or more exciting. From the sensational New York jazz club sounds of The Hot Sardines to the world-famous Second City comedy troupe (this Chicago-based ensemble practically invented the kind of topical, sharp, improvised comedy that made SNL possible) – from the country/gospel music legends, The Gatlin Brothers, to the once-in-a-lifetime chance to see So You Think You Can Dance LIVE! close to home – and plenty more on all our stages and in our gallery – September and October at the Hylton have never been hotter (or cooler). It’s that kind of season.
Change is also visible (VERY visible) with the long-awaited Education and Rehearsal Wing taking final form and finish. We can’t wait to show you the ins and outs of this game-changing facility. As Eileen Kennedy, our Director of Development, is fond of saying: how many performing arts centers put their rehearsal and teaching spaces right up front, with huge windows and commanding views? We’re so thrilled to be bringing such creative capacity to the artistic community, the university, and the thousands of students, young and old, who will learn and grow – dare I say “take wing?” – in the new Wing every year.
So enjoy whatever Mother Nature is offering today, and make plans to be a frequent visitor to the Hylton Center this fall. There’s a spring in our step as we enter our 9th season!
Rick Davis
Dean and Executive Director