Page 11 - GTMF Capital Campaign 2024

“ It is akin to a remarkable and
Many of Walk Festival Hall’s amenities and systems are
out of date or approaching the end of their service lives.
The most pressing issue is one that sits behind the scenes:
the fire suppression system, which is no longer up to
code. This essential safety system must be addressed
immediately. This creates an opportunity to make other
interrelated upgrades, unlocking the efficiencies and cost
savings of a comprehensive renovation.
The improvements will enhance comfort,
accessibility, acoustics, safety, and aesthetics.
They’re essential to meeting the evolving needs
of artists and audiences as well as providing
world-class musical experiences. Without them,
our ability to grow our audience and expand our impact
will be limited.
And, just as there is a special chemistry amongst the
musicians onstage, there is a unique interplay between
musicians and the audience. In order for the ideal
musician experience to occur onstage, an equally
suitable audience experience must be in place. More
restrooms, better egress on the deck, and a sound
system that is up to date and clear. These practical
finely tuned instrument which we
play every summer. It has served
us so wonderfully for decades,
and it now needs some urgent
and genuine TLC. It needs to be
brought into the 21st century.”
– Sir Donald Runnicles, GTMF Music Director
improvements to Walk Festival Hall will carry our
audience and musicians’ experience to our 75th
season and beyond.
To protect and uplift the Festival experience that is
the highlight of the summer for so many, our goal is
to time the renovation to minimize its impact on the
Festival schedule.
To fully realize the value of these upgrades, GTMF is
exploring opportunities for greater utilization of the Hall
beyond the eight weeks of the Summer Festival. With
renovations and improved winter access, it could be used
for presentations, including musical programming and
lectures. As one of the largest venues in the county, the
Hall could also serve as a community resource for
graduations, school programs, and other activities.
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