The Curtain Rises

This weekend one journey ends. Another begins. The curtain will rise on CenterStage and its key component, a refurbished (remade, actually) Carpenter Theatre.

The process has been arduous. The drive for a downtown performing arts complex was officially launched eight years ago, just as terrorists attacked the homeland. Years of planning and decades of dreaming preceded the opening event. The proposed center went through various permutations. Economic reality compelled changes. For many months, the center consisted of a hole on Broad Street. Now, at last, a first-class performance space has come.

And this is where the second journey starts. Comfortable surroundings enhance nights at the symphony, ballet, opera, and other performing arts. The troupes need modern dressing rooms, and a backstage capable of storing, and displaying, sets of beauty and drama. In its early days, CenterStage itself will inspire the audience's oohs and ahs. Over time, attention will fall primarily on the performances.

Richmond is blessed.

CenterStage's resident companies include the Richmond Symphony, the Richmond Ballet, the Virginia Opera, Theatre IV/Barksdale, the Elegba Folklore Society, the African American Repertory Theatre, Richmond Shakespeare, and the Richmond Jazz Society. SPARC -- the School of Performing Arts in the Richmond Community -- emphasizes the center's commitment to education. The arts indeed receive short shrift in the schools. SPARC fills an inexcusable void.

CenterStage gives the companies listed above venues worthy of their talents and potential. Regarding the arts, Richmonders talk a great game. CenterStage offers them convenience and comfort -- and a chance personally to demonstrate that the arts are essential to the complete life. The revitalization of the neighborhood would be a happy byproduct, but the presentation of the arts defines CenterStage's higher purpose.

Let the show begin.