It's a new era at the Fine Arts Center. For 25 years the center has offered the most comprehensive and welcoming arts programming in the valley -- art that has transcended the traditional definitions of cultural expression and lifted us up to see the world through the eyes of our artistic visionaries. The center has consistently provided the valley community with the variety, scale, and excellence usually found in big urban centers.

Now, as the curtain rises on our 25th anniversary, the Fine Arts Center looks to continue and improve on that promise. Just a few things on the horizon include:

• Development of a strategic plan to ensure that we are prepared to meet the challenges of this millennium. Our goals are to clarify our organizational culture, directions, roles, and responsibilities and establish a shared vision that meets the needs of the community.

• Construction of a new handicap accessible elevator in the Concert Hall along with increased wheelchair seating to be completed this season.

• Continuing opportunities for enriching the dialogue between artists and the community through presentation, educational activities, commissioning new works, youth programs, and artist residencies.

We invite you to celebrate with us this season as we present artists who elevate and expose the lasting truths of our traditional views as well as artists who choose to discard those views with equal passion. Assuredly, the artistic distinction, quality, and innovation that are at the heart of the Fine Arts Center will continue to reflect our community.

With warm regards,

Dr. Willie L. Hill, Director Fine Arts Center