City Council Meeting

Catherine Readwith the City of Fairfax Theatre Company at Veterans Amphitheater, check out the finalists of the Spotlight on the Arts contest, sponsored by Capital One Hall, displayed at the opening reception. Now, therefore, I, Catherine S. Reed, mayor of the city of Fairfax, do hereby recognize and honor Fairfax Spotlight on the Arts on their 40th anniversary and encourage the community to come out over the weekends of April 25 to 27 and May 2 to 4 to see some wonderful concerts and shows. So let's give it up for Fairfax Spotlight on the Arts and this wonderful board who would like to make remarks.

Lori Hubberman-Hayespublic commentThe arts are a cornerstone of the community where relationships are built and where we can come together, celebrate, and share experiences. For over a decade now, the City of Fairfax Theatre Company has been doing just that, enriching our city through the power of the arts. Since its founding in 2009, the Theatre Company has not only provided outstanding performances, but it has also become a crucial part of our arts education landscape. Through its programs, it has given countless individuals the opportunity to engage with theatre, develop new skills, and become active participants in the creative process. most impactful ways the theater company has contributed to our community is through its commitment to arts education. Every year we offer scholarships to

on how they see the world and how they engage with others. Beyond individual growth, the arts have a powerful way of bringing people together. The City of Fairfax Theatre Company has fostered a thriving arts community in our city where relationships are built through shared experiences and where the entire city can come together to celebrate creativity and talent. When we support the arts, we are building more than just an audience for performances. We are building a stronger, more connected city. By funding the arts, we are investing in the heart of our community. The arts improve quality of life, they create lasting friendships, and they contribute to the vibrancy of our neighborhoods. So, thank you for your time today, and let's continue to support the arts in our city.

Amanda Snellingspublic commentGood evening, Mayorita, members of the City Council. My name is Amanda Snellings. I am not a resident of the city, but I feel like I might as well be working at George Mason University and here tonight in my role as Artistic Director of the City of Fairfax Theatre Company. Thank you so much for the opportunity to speak tonight and for all of your past support. In 2024, your investment helped us accomplish incredible things. We produced five full-scale productions and one cabaret, including two premieres by local playwrights. 135 creative team members and 102 cast members came together to make this magic happen and brought in 3,631 audience members, helping to drive foot traffic and business to local restaurants, shops, and services.