By Tara Fort
When 2020 events posed challenges for Prescott and its residents, Robyn Allen’s first thought was, “How can we reach out and give back to the community who has supported us through so many events?” Allen, in her fifth year as Executive Director of the historic performance landmark Prescott Center for the Arts (PCA), called upon her volunteer force to make calls to thousands of residents throughout the community offering help to those in self-isolation at a time when they needed it the most help—and just like that, PCA Serves was formed. The group offered a variety of assistance based on need including, grocery shopping, meal delivery, a compassionate ear, or a ride to an appointment.
As the group continued offering community support and encouragement through the Spring and Summer, the PCA received a sizable donation from an anonymous donor. That donation was instrumental for the planned theater renovation. Through the remodel, audience members will now have the opportunity to view innovative performances in a Cabaret-style nightclub setting, complete with socially-distanced tables, beverages through a newly-acquired limited liquor license, and small plate offerings featuring local restaurants. Allen says, “We are at 50% capacity of what we had before when we were able to seat 200, although the renovation has provided for better air circulation and acoustics.” Home to one of Prescott’s most historic gems, the building has served generations and requires ongoing maintenance. Allen crafted the perfect solution: “For every drink that is sold at one of our shows, $1 goes toward the historical preservation fund. That will add up!”
While the model for performances may have changed, Allen is pleased with the creative ways the actors and volunteers have forged ahead. She adds, “This trying time brought up some new opportunities for our performers in the community. I put out a call to action encouraging artists to stretch their boundaries and present a pitch for performances in which they always wanted to participate but were never afford the opportunity to do. As a result, we have several solo performances that feature artists doing the work they have desired most, starting with the one-man performance of A Christmas Carol!”
The 2021 season is set to open late Winter or early Spring with “Songs I’ve Always Loved” by performing artist Sandy Vernon who, along with a trio of guests, will feature highlighted songs and comedy through the music of Cole Porter, Rogers and Hart, and Steven Sondheim. Also within the season—provided the distancing limitations are lifted in part—patrons will see the evolution of new small-cast plays and musicals, and the production of “Red,” a raw and provocative portrait of an artist as he tries to create a definitive piece of work in an extraordinary setting. Adds Allen, “Red has been in production for several months and we are proud to finally bring this classic performance to the Prescott stage.”
For more information about upcoming schedules and events, as well as the fine work is done by Robyn Allen and the Prescott Center for the Arts, visit, https://www.pca-az.net/.