Council to tweak theater operations
By Sylvie Belmond belmond@theacorn.com

The City Council Wednesday unanimously approved a proposal to fine-tune the operations of the High Street Arts Center, hoping to increase revenue and further involve residents in the venture.

The proposed changes are focused and achievable, said Council Members Roseann Mikos and Mark Van Dam. The two were assigned to review the operations of the theater because it didn't reach revenue projections established by the Redevelopment Agency almost two years ago.

The facility was purchased for $1.25 million in 2005 to help revitalize the downtown area.

The 22-month performance review only adjusts the details of the agreement that was made between the city and the theater when L.J. Stevens was hired to manage the venue in 2006, said Mikos. "Many of the recommendations are things that are already underway," she said.

But no proposals or changes can make the theater solvent. The art center will not sustain itself without Redevelopment Agency backing.

Expenses for the third season are estimated at more than $230,800 while revenues won't surpass $100,000. So the agency must continue to fill the financial gap to keep the theater's doors open.

The committee proposed to implement new accounting controls to tally the expenses and profits of the Arts Center. Rental opportunities will be increased and a holiday melodrama will be included in the upcoming 2008/ 2009 season, said David Moe, redevelopment agency manager.

A children's theater workshop of "Disney's Beauty and the Beast" is scheduled to take place in the theater this summer and the city will offer five scholarships worth $750 to Moorpark residents. Children between the ages of 7 and 15 are invited to apply by May 30.

"We received a lot of input from the public," said Van Dam, indicating comments are appreciated and they're taken seriously.

The committee suggested the Arts Commission that was formed last year, should be more involved with the theater operations.

"There are a lot of good ideas in there," said Councilmember Keith Millhouse who motioned a vote in favor of the proposals.

Officials encouraged residents to attend upcoming performances of "The Curious Savage" set to open on May 16 and run through June 15.