World class artists were the feature of the first ever performance at LUMBERYARD’s new facility in Catskill, N.Y.
Hollywood actor, Alan Cumming, welcomed more than 400 guests on Saturday to see one of the best tap dancers in the world, Savion Glover.
Joined on stage by celebrated jazz drummer, Marcus Gilmore, they thrilled a crowd of Hudson Valley residents and arts patrons who have supported LUMBERYARD’s years-long mission to bring internationally recognized performance artists to the region.
“It is so exciting to finally be opening our doors to the artistic and local community,” Adrienne Willis, LUMBERYARD’s Executive and Artistic Director, said.
“As a renowned performer on both stage and screen, Alan Cumming was the perfect host for the evening.
“We’re grateful for the support of many people throughout the Hudson Valley community and in Catskill, N.Y. in particular.”
LUMBERYARD is a first-of-its kind in Hudson Valley performing arts center. While its more than 7,000 square foot space can be reconfigured to replicate a variety of New York City stages, it’s also Greene County’s only Qualified Production Facility.
LUMBERYARD Studios, which includes a purpose-built sound stage for filming and post production, will serve filmmakers, production companies and the motion picture industry keen to take advantage of New York State’s film tax credit program.
LUMBERYARD’s Gala Opening
Cumming, a Tony Award winning artist known for his memorable Broadway performances as well as TV and film roles, such as his Emmy-award winning portrayal of Eli Gold in “The Good Wife”, welcomed guests to the sold out performance.
Feature artists, Glover and Gilmore, easily won the crowd’s praise.
Those who could not attend in person, shared their enthusiasm on Facebook where a livestream was available. Others pledged funds to LUMBERYARD via text.
LUMBERYARD is grateful to the sponsors that helped make the evening such a success: Pepsi Cola & Pepsi Bottlers of NY and Columbia Memorial Health.
Senator Amedore Secures $1 Million for LUMBERYARD
On the eve of the grand opening, Senator George Amedore announced that he had secured $1-million of economic development funding from this year’s state budget for LUMBERYARD.
Funds will support LUMBERYARD’s success bringing top-tier artists to the Catskill, N.Y. facility as well as the development of new jobs and increased tourism to the region, Senator Amedore said.
“LUMBERYARD is an anchor for revitalization efforts in the Village of Catskill and it’s going to have a tremendous economic impact in Greene County and the entire region.
“Not only will they bring world class performing arts into the community and establish Greene County as a premiere destination for film production, they will provide hands-on training and education to inspire our future workforce. This is a great investment that will help create jobs, generate tourism, and benefit the entire community.”
Willis reflected on how pivotal Senator Amedore’s vision for Greene County has been to LUMBERYARD’s success.
“Senator Amedore’s announcement couldn’t have come at a more perfect time, we are so thankful for his unwavering support.
“We are looking forward to bringing more incredible performers to the area, and are proud to be playing such a big part in the revitalization of Catskill, N.Y. and Greene County.”
LUMBERYARD’s impact
A recent economic impact study projects LUMBERYARD to welcome up to 10,000 additional visitors to the Hudson Valley region each year.
At its peak, LUMBERYARD could support the creation of up to 150 direct, indirect and induced jobs and $13 million in economic output.
The growth will be primarily driven by the center’s artistic programming, film and TV production soundstage rentals, and conference and wedding rentals.
All of LUMBERYARD’s revenue is invested back into the performing arts
What’s next
Beginning with LUMBERYARD’s Fall slate of performances, the Catskill, N.Y. campus will play host to a series of internationally recognized artists.
Technical residents will have at least a week of unrestricted theater access, housing, meals, and dedicated use of LUMBERYARD’s production staff and equipment.
Upcoming residencies and performances include Kaneza Schaal, Kimberly Bartosik, and Andrew Schneider—as part of LUMBERYARD’s partnership with the Brooklyn Academy of Music (BAM), where these works will premiere in the 2018 Next Wave Festival—and a heralded new work in progress created by cellist Maya Beiser, starring Beiser and legendary dancer Wendy Whelan, choreographed by Lucinda Childs with music by David Lang.
For a 2-for-1 early bird discount on fall season tickets, please us the code EARLY by Sept. 15.
