Next to its sister venue, the Orpheum, the three-year-old Halloran Centre for Performing Arts and Education offers educational components, as well as programming for adults, performances and rental opportunities for groups.
The vice president of operations for the venue, Ron Jewell, spoke at the Lakeland Chamber of Commerce luncheon today (6.27.18) and shared details about the downtown facility.
The native Memphian has worked in the arts from New York to Bartlett, with the Memphis Symphony and The Peabody in-between. He is also known for his touring one-man theatrical show, Mark Twain At-Large.
The lunch was at Stonebridge Golf Club in Lakeland and sponsored by Fireworks City.
Mr. Jewell said he is glad to talk with Chamber members as they are the heart and soul of the community.
He noted that the Halloran Centre was built to be an educational wing to the Orpheum and help people access their creative spirit. It was a $16 million project and has no debt.
“The educational programs we have are stellar,” he said. And he reviewed the upcoming concert and performance schedule while noting there are excellent rental opportunities within the venue.
“This year there are twice as many shows as last year. And for Sunday evenings we are beginning a series with Kirk Whalum. “Kirk is known for his spirit of equality and positiveness to music. He tries to touch people’s lives and change them. “That series is called “Kafé Kirk” and offers four shows starting in October.
He said seating at the Halloran is 361 compared to about 2,000 at the Orpheum. “We welcome you to come see the Halloran Centre,” said Mr. Jewell. “Just press the door bell and we will let you inside to see our facilities.” He said there is a rehearsal hall, board room, classrooms and a lobby for receptions, all available for rental.
Link to the Orpheum and Halloran Center: https://orpheum-memphis.com/
Wil Ashworth, president of the Chamber, said the next Chamber meeting will be July 25 featuring Dr. Ted Horrell, superintendent for the Lakeland School System. Realtor Billy Rodgers will be sponsor for the luncheon.
… Photos by Anna Stonestreet Smith, Lakeland resident who has her own photography business, Anna Stonestreet Photography.
