Flynn Center 2009-2010 Annual Report

Posted on February 14, 2011

A Message from the Executive Director and CEO John Killacky

Eighty years ago in 1930, "Mr. Flynn's Theater" opened with lots of fanfare, music, and screening the film Big Money. Managing Director L. W. Carroll dedicated the opulent venue to "our neighbors, for whom it was erected ... with much modesty-and with a little pride-we dedicate to you this interpretation of your amusement needs, with the hope that it may not be unworthy."

In 1981 the renovated Flynn Theater reopened for live performance with a gala presentation by a diverse group of area artists, including the Vermont Symphony Orchestra and Lyric Theatre. Ten years ago, expanded facilities transformed us into a comprehensive performing arts center. The Flynn Center incorporated two performance venues-the original theater, fully restored to its Art Deco splendor, and FlynnSpace.

FlynnSpace became the community's venue of choice for intimate live theater, performance art, jazz, acoustic music,comedy performances, and more. New education and dance studios allowed us to offer year-round FlynnArts classes in music,theater, and dance for children and adults. This expansion also greatly enlarged the main theater lobby and christened a visual artsgallery. Currently we serve nearly 200,000 people every year, including 40,000 students state-wide through our student matinees,as well as year-round classes, workshops, and summer camps.

The Flynn is now at another crossroads with the departure of the indefatigable Andrea Rogers, retiring after 30 years of service.  I am so lucky to be joining your community, taking her place as the new executive director. The Flynn is nationally renowned for its multidisciplinary presentations, expansive education and outreach programs, and support for local and regional artists.None of this is possible without the extraordinary support of members, donors, volunteers, government, foundation, corporate funding partners, and, of course, the Flynn's dedicated Board and wonderful staff, from whom you will hear throughout this report. None better than their own voices to tell you about this past year.

I am grateful for your past support reflected in this annual report and very proud to be running the house that Andrea Rogers built.I look forward to working with you during the next chapter of this beloved institution's history.

Read the entire 2009-2010 Annual Report.