For the first time since 1985, the Downey Symphony Orchestra had a sold-out concert at the Downey Civic Theatre. When the Theatre was being planned in the late 60’s, the Symphonic Society and the Downey Children’s Theatre argued about the size of the auditorium– the Symphony wanted 1000, and the theatre only 500. At 738 seats today, they met in the middle.
The concert on February 1, 2014 featured soloist Elizabeth Pitcairn, playing the famous “Red Violin,” for Vivaldi’s Four Seasons. Poetry that inspired the music suite was read by actress Sela Ward and Italian singer Anthony Moreno. The Downey Arts Coalition also curated an art show to accompany the concert, entitled “Red Rhapsody,” featuring 25 local artists, as well as a piece from the Downey Museum of Art.
Unlike other traditional arts organizations that have shuttered in Downey, the Symphony has been turning it around, trying fresh new ideas to connect with the community. Primarily, however, the Downey Symphony delivers on it’s promise: excellent musical performances.
Read the write-up in the Downey Patriot (click here). Congratulations to the Downey Symphonic Society, the Symphony Guild, and music director Sharon Lavery.
