Correspondent of the day

CenterStage Opening Heralds Dear Memories
Editor, Times-Dispatch: Reading so much about the opening of "Richmond CenterStage" I reflect upon the Gala Opening Performances, May 5,6,7, 1983, of "The Virginia Center for the Performing Arts," (or the "Carpenter Center," as it came to be known).

Opening night featured Leontyne Price and the Richmond Symphony Orchestra conducted by Jacques Houtmann, in a program of Beethoven, Mozart, Verdi, and Puccini. A reception followed at Central Fidelity Bank.

I attended the black-tie performance Saturday night with Peter Bay conducting the RSO in music by Shostakovich, Sondheim, Block, and Tchaikovsky. Following intermission, Helen Reddy and her musical ensemble lit up the stage performing a variety of popular and classical pieces. A reception followed at Richmond City Hall on the observation deck with a fantastic clear night view of the city. Saturday's presentation was the musical play "Purlie" featuring Marie Goodman Hunter and Larry Bland. This play was based on the original by Ossie Davis. A street party on Sixth Street followed this great performance.

Should anyone remember, Nina F. Abady was director of development.

Through the years I have retained the program, ticket, invitation, and other data from that great weekend.

Let me not overlook the volunteer ticket takers, ushers, and program stuffers assisting each night under the capable direction of Tommy Smith, who is now associated with Landmark Theater. I was to soon become one of the volunteers whose pay was to see some fine shows, maybe a complimentary ticket, and a free soda after intermission. A few remained through the entire evening to see to any emergency that might arise. This leads me to inquire, will the new staff be volunteers or paid for? If the latter I'd like to get in on it! "These few precepts in thy memory do . . . "

James F. Green.
Petersburg.