The West Michigan Symphony, based in Muskegon, is in the midst of a $480,000 capital campaign to enhance its facilities and expand programming. The orchestra has signed a long-term lease in a 4,900-foot space in the revitalized Russell Block building, nearly tripling its current office space in the Frauenthal Center for the Performing Arts. The new space will allow the orchestra to improve its ticketing operation, establish flexible administrative offices for its staff, and create a 130-seat performance and education hall to expand its programming and education offerings. The campaign was launched with a $250,000 lead gift by Michael and Kay Olthoff, two of the orchestra’s longtime supporters. The orchestra’s main performance space will remain the Frauenthal Center, erected in 1929 by Muskegon-based movie mogul Paul Shlossman. “This move will allow the West Michigan Symphony to establish a true downtown presence as one of Muskegon’s leading arts organizations,” said Music Director Scott Speck. “A move to the Russell Block building will raise our profile and allow us to reach a new generation of music-lovers through fresh education and artistic programs.”
Posted January 14, 2013
