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Marketing and University Communication UW-Green Bay, CL 815 2420 Nicolet Drive Green Bay, WI 54311-7001 (920) 465-2626 E-mail: hildebrs@uwgb.edu Last update: 12/19/06 |
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In
the News Archive - Year:
December 15, 2006 Editorial: Applause is due for UWGB's Weidner Center decision Issue:
This is good news, not only because of the university's commitment to the Weidner, but also because of the approach it is taking.
UWGB is collaborating with a nonprofit community organization called Weidner Center Presents Inc. that will handle programming details. And while there is a goal to book 10 to 12 main stage shows and three to five touring Broadway shows starting next fall, there is demonstrated wisdom in not aiming too high.
The robust years of the Weidner ended several years ago for a variety of reasons — among them the growth of other entertainment venues in Northeastern Wisconsin. UWGB had just two choices — to find another use for the Weidner Center or discover an entertainment and educational niche that would work here.
It chose the latter.
Local use will continue, with the Green Bay Symphony performances and other campus and community events. Daytime educational programs for schools will also be part of the package, and a new business programming model will replace the cultural programming model.
Of course, it will be essential that Weidner Center Presents Inc. is able to attract the type of entertainment that resonates with the public and doesn't try to compete with the Fox Cities Performing Arts Center in Appleton.
Proof that UWGB has taken the right approach will be a favorable response by the public as evidenced in ticket sales. It won't be the "big splash" shows that once came to town but it can fill a void that has been painfully evident for the past year.
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