Cultural Performing Arts Advisory Committee
Meeting Notes from November 20, 2014
Attended: Johanna Forte, James Jackson, John Metcalf, Christine Saidi, Robin Zaremski (staff)
Commenced: 1:00 pm
I.
II.
III.
KU Presents! Informational History – Ms. Zaremski gave the new Committee Members
background on KU Presents! - an overview of where KUP originated, the mission statement,
and KUP’s role on Kutztown’s campus; reviewed current budget and the changes that have
been made in KUP programming since the 2013 – 2014 season (elimination of Family Shows)
to help keep that budget balanced.
2014 – 2015 Season Update – Ms. Zaremski provided the Committee with the status of the
current season – three sold out shows, balanced budget to date, subscribership doubled
from previous 2013 – 2014 season.
Programming Discussion - Open discussion on ideas for the next academic year season,
2015 – 2016. Ms. Zaremski advised that no additional funding would be coming from the
Sesquicentennial Event Committee, and, at this point, the KUP budget was not expected to
increase for the next academic year. She welcomed ideas for exciting artists, musicians,
dancers and theatre with the anticipation that KUP would again be booking a total of seven
Performing Artist Series (7) performances (the same as this season.)
A) Ms. Saidi provided literature and information on the Progress Theatre company show
“The Burnin’.” Possible partnerships/collaborations with The Multicultural Center, the
Muslim Student group, local mosques and KU academic departments would support
through assistance with marketing to their constituents/classes and possible light
funding. To be reviewed.
B) Mr. Jackson suggested pursuing a partnership with Berks Jazz Fest and agreed to provide
a list of artists that may work for both organizations. Brief discussion on both the Kevin
Eubanks and this year’s Audra McDonald offerings to Berks Jazz Fest.
C) Committee was tasked with providing programming ideas to Ms. Zaremski that would
meet KUP’s mission, have accessible partnering or sponsorship availabilities, and that
were artists of exceptional talent capable of filling Schaeffer Auditorium. To be emailed
to Ms. Zaremski as completed.
Meeting adjourned: 2:00 pm
NEXT MEETING:
January 2015 – will contact everyone for a common available date and time.