High Tech and High Art for All

There is an exciting development going on in Tacoma. Some very smart people have gotten together and purchased a 100 year old performance space call Valhalla Hall. These people have raised money to renovate this rather large relic and eye sore of a performance space into "Allen Place", a state of the art technology and performing arts center for the under served children in the Hilltop neighborhood, which sits just at the top of downtown Tacoma.

This is one of the solutions to the extremely distressing issues that are brought up in the documentary film "Waiting for Superman"; giving underprivileged children a place where they can potentially fill in the gaps that their schools are unable to provide, either because of budget issues, or not having enough teachers who are specialists.

I am considered a specialist. I don't have a teaching certificate and yet I am an expert in my field. Having a place like the one mentioned above allows a child to learn from experts that they would rarely, if ever, come in contact with at school. This is a great opportunity for young students that will not only enhance their education, but, give them renewed hope in their own voice, talent, and life. And every child deserves to feel the power of their own creative voice.

I believe that every major and minor metropolitan area should have a center like Allen Place so as to keep a level playing field for the ones who have and the ones who have not. This kind of center also employs artists; actors, directors, singers, choreographers, composers, and musicians as teaching artists. Artists have a great desire to share their knowledge with children as way of enriching neighborhoods, schools, and the community at large.

Allen Place will not only expose and engage children in technology and the performing arts, but, should prove to be an incredible shot in the arm for the neighborhood. It will entice new business owners to open shops and restaurants and it will inspire others to continue to beautify the area. It's a win-win for everyone and I can't wait to see the finished product!

Check out the vision. . .

I will keep you posted on the progress.