Letter to the Editor: Keeping the arts alive and well in Delmarva

Earth Wind & Fire. The Mid-Atlantic Symphony Orchestra. Train. Black Violin. Shakespeare. Jake Owen. Harry Connick Jr. What a season!

The Freeman Arts Pavilion delivered a wave of diverse entertainment this summer: national and local artists, tribute bands, performing arts and free family and children’s programming; all made possible by our generous donors, sponsors, patrons, staff, partners, volunteers and neighbors.

Despite changing health directives, challenging weather conditions and occasional hurricane, and an updated venue, we “pressed play” for more than 81,000 patrons. A “thank-you” to our audience this year for being particularly patient, enthusiastic and supportive and for spreading joy. Our Arts in Education program touched the hearts and minds of thousands of children, and we can’t wait to start that programming again next month in schools. It’s beyond exciting to know that we have impacted more than 100,000 people so far in 2021.

The transition of The Freeman Stage to the Freeman Arts Pavilion was a giant leap for our public charity that started in January 2021. Although the physical structure of the Freeman Arts Pavilion is several years away, everyone got to feel the potential as we enjoyed the newly landscaped site. Our pod seating arrangements worked well and kept everyone feeling safe and comfortable.

Our founder and chairwoman, Michelle Freeman, created a charity program to honor the memory of her husband, Josh, after his untimely death in 2006. Josh was passionate about contributing to the performing arts and making high-quality, diverse arts experiences accessible to all. The Joshua M. Freeman Foundation seeks to honor his passion and commitment to excellence by creating programs he would have been proud of — like those at the Freeman Arts Pavilion.

In 2022, we will create a new exit, move the box office to the new entrance, add restrooms and beverage stations, improve the lighting and add staff and volunteers — all to enhance the audience experience.

The Freeman Arts Pavilion is both the continuation of a uniquely American community tradition and the future of the arts in the Delaware coastal communities. We are grateful for those who support the arts in our communities as we serve the residents and guests of Delmarva. Thank you to every single person for their contribution to elevating the human spirit. We look forward to seeing everyone next year in Season 15! Learn more at freemanarts.org.

Patti Grimes

Executive director, Freeman Arts Pavilion