Posted on: October 29, 2022
| | 4:38 pm


Ann Foxworthy-Lewellen, left, Vice Chair of the Theater Fest Board. Scott Coe, Executive Director of Theater Fest; County Superintendent Joan Hartmann; and Theaterfest President Denis de Bellefeuille. (photo courtesy)
Following the completion of the Solvang Festival Theater’s $5.3 million renovation, Solvang Theaterfest received an Artistic Leadership Award from the Santa Barbara County Arts Commission. Solvang Theaterfest is a non-profit organization that owns and operates the Solvang Festival Theater.
Established in 2006 to honor leaders who have made a significant impact on the arts and sciences of the region, this annual award was presented to Theaterfest representatives by resolution of the County Board of Supervisors on October 19. I was.
The theater reconstruction project, which began construction in September 2021 and completed in July 2022, will ensure structural integrity, safety and accessibility with new electrical and technical capabilities to enhance lighting and sound. To do.
Overall, the design improves the audience experience and comfort with higher walls, improved acoustics, and new seating.
To finance an innovative renovation project, Solvang Theaterfest asked the community for help. Imagine! Launched in 2019, the Building the Future Campaign received over 700 donations from individuals, businesses and foundations.
Denise De Bellefeuille, President of Theaterfest, said on accepting the award:
“We have grand plans for this new theater: concerts, plays, comedies, weddings, receptions, festivals, and even a stunt dog performance in November.”
The Board of Supervisors established the County Arts Commission in 1977 to support, promote, and encourage participation and access to arts and culture for all county residents. The award was presented in his October, and he has been recognized by the White House and Congress as National Arts and Humanities Month for 38 years.
For more information, please contact Solvang Theaterfest Executive Director Scott Coe at exec.director@solvangtheaterfest.org. Call 805-588-4112 or visit https://solvangtheaterfest.org/campaign.php.