By Tara Fort
For Executive Director Robyn Allen of Prescott Center for the Arts, having an adaptable staff has proven key in the survival of the offerings of one of Prescott’s historic landmarks that continues to serve the community in its 51st year. Allen knew there were changes to come and states, “We realized we had important work ahead of us and we had the perfect team in place to get it done.”
Sylvia Ximi
Along with the full-time technical director and part-time creative on the team, the staff also includes Graphic and Web Designer Sylvia Ximi, Business Manager Laine Murphy and Box Office Manager Suzy Campbell. All agree that thinking outside the box became the motto for continued growth over the past several months. Says Campbell, “Our two concerts in October 2020 in the parking lot behind our building were so much fun! That was something we might not have thought of before, and we hope to continue outdoor events as weather permits. We also changed the theater to cabaret-style seating for a more intimate setting, which brings new spirit to some of our performances.” Adding to the general business operations of PCA, Murphy’s role took on an added dimension, “I have a professional work history in settings that require safety measures to keep patient populations safe. As a result, I was asked to take on the safety mitigation investigation and implementation for PCA.” Ximi adds, “The situation of 2020 forced us to grow and learn new ways of communicating. I am glad to have a team around me who cares about what we do enough to put in the effort to make it work.”
Laine Murphy
While the model for some performances may have changed, Allen values the creativity brought about by the volunteers and actors, and the new opportunities that arose. With collaboration and relationships at the heart of the PCA, she and the staff have continued to find ways to showcase art appreciation throughout the community. Says Ximi, “I feel that the Arts enriches the lives of everyone, and the best part about it all is the experience—just being in and around it.” Campbell adds, “We plan our season a year in advance, so we were thinking about 2021 in March of 2020 when we had to close our doors. We’ve made a few adjustments since then; however, our Board, staff, cast, and crew are so ready to continue to bring all forms of PCA entertainment to the Tri-City area!”
Suzy Cambell
For more information about upcoming schedules and events, as well as the fine work done by Robyn Allen and her staff at the Prescott Center for the Arts, visit, https://www.pca-az.net/.
THE BOARD OF PCA:
Christine Scott: Christine has lived in Prescott since 1984 and has been on the PCA Board for five years. She currently serves as President and is excited about plans for a campus expansion including an additional gallery, Studio Theater, and outside amphitheater. Says Christine, “This will help us to truly realize our mission to serve all of the arts – performing and visual – for our communities.”
Cynthia Jones: Cynthia moved to the area as a marketing communications consultant with a background and love of art. She joined the PCA Board in 2020 after presenting an idea she had for a community-wide public art project she thought might fit with the PCA vision. Her hope for the coming year is that 2021 brings the ability to “once more gather and enjoy entertainment, art, and each other’s company.” She is delighted to assist PCA in actualizing the vision of a vital community hub for visual and performing arts.
Marnie Uhl: Marnie is a 15-year resident of Prescott Valley and is currently CEO of the Prescott Valley Chamber of Commerce. She has served as Past President of the PCA and is currently in her sixth year on the Board. She says, “I saw my first show in June 2006 and have been a season ticket holder ever since!” She sees PCA as a leader in area arts, and she looks forward to bringing the opportunity to participate, enjoy and support the arts to everyone in the community.
Breeanya Hinkel: Breeanya has lived in Prescott for 40 years and is the Owner and Publisher of Prescott Woman Magazine. She is currently serving her third year on the PCA Board. Her goals for the coming year include having PCA become a central place within Prescott for both visual and performance arts. Breeanya also serves on the boards for Finding and Making the Good, Prescott Area Women Who Care, and Prescott Downtown Partnership.
Ali Cassidy: Ali has lived in Prescott for almost 20 years and joined the PCA Board in 2018. Her introduction to PCA was her role in “Calendar Girls” in 2016 where one of the requirements was to pose “nude” for a charity calendar featured in the play. Ali says, “It was tasteful and supported YRMC’s Breast Cancer clinic.” Her goals for PCA are to showcase PCA as a true artistic hub for the whole Tri-City area to include theater, storytelling and visual arts, and that they will attract a broad range of artists, performers, and audiences with whom they have not previously connected.