CCMIN03202018 - Laserfiche WebLink

Rebecca Davis spoke in support of the TVRT's contract and noted their unique professional nature in treating their performers. She noted theatre is not always a comfortable environment for actors and staff is very welcoming to all levels of performers. Their organization's values are what brings performers back to work for them. She supports the proposed offer to TVRT. Rachel Anderson attested to the high quality of performers who work with TVRT and noted she has worked with them on several performances. She credits the company with providing her with the skills and opportunity to pursue a career in technical theatre. The quality of the performances is incredible. She expressed support for the City's contract with TVRT. Dr. Mary Kay Stevenson spoke in support as a patron by TVRT. She has also volunteered with the company and noted she wrote a letter of support for the City Council's approval of the contract. Brian Olkowski runs a drama club with 4th and 5th graders in San Ramon and a children's theatre company in the City of Dublin. He has been involved in TVRT since 2008 as an actor, set builder, director, and other various roles. TVRT is very professional and he has worked with the company at various venues. They get great talent and work with people at all levels of experience. Everybody who participates is appreciated. DC Scarpelli addressed Councilmember Pentin's inquiry regarding equity-trained performers. He stated his credentials as a performer and noted his pride in working with the TVRT's community theatre. The community they create treats both artists and audiences with respect for their love of the craft. TVRT has been in Pleasanton for decades and he supports Council's approval of the contract. Darren AC Corollo, Executive Director of a theatre company in San Francisco, stated he also works part-time as a Broadway, Off-Broadway, and part-time community director. He described the "equity" actor status and how points are earned, and it does not always equate to professionalism. His golden rule in theatre is treat people how they want to be treated, as they do at TVRT. The company creates a safe environment for artists to take risks and elevate performances. Ron Houk started working with TVRT in 2008 and credits the company with assisting him during difficult periods in his own life. He noted certain theater companies can be unprofessional and TVRT has an excellent reputation for their treatment of all performers and staff. Carol Houey has served on the Board of Directors of TVRT and worked with the company from its earliest days. She has also been a Theatre teacher at Livermore High School. She has witnessed TVRT's strong educational outreach program which benefits the local youth. The productions bring together performers of all ages, levels of experience, and diverse backgrounds to introduce them to the theater community. The Pleasanton community benefits from the wide programs the company offers and urged support for the contract. Peter Budinger is an actor, director, and producer in the Bay area and started with TVRT in 2014. Many of the participants in TVRT have other jobs and obligations, and he appreciates the support, camaraderie and quality of performances provided at the company. It is a pleasure to work there, as he noted his four productions with the TVRT. Participants and performers return again and again due to the satisfying experiences. He also expressed support for the Firehouse facility and affirmed TVRT would treat the venue with the respect it deserves. He urged support for the TVRT contract. Mike Cerruti spoke as a supporter, participant, and father who has been positively impacted by TVRT productions. He is a community theatre actor and noted his wonderful experience with City Council Minutes Page 8 of 12 March 20, 2018