At the heart of the Green Music Center’s work is bringing people together to experience the performing arts, and the COVID-19 pandemic has greatly impacted the way we do this. Like all performing arts organizations, we had to cancel our programming starting in mid-March 2020. Fortunately, we were able to work ethically with the independent artists we had booked to honor portions of their contracts. We then canceled the summer season, and redesigned our programming to deliver it online with a focus on deeply engaging interactions with artists. Inspired by the tradition of theater green rooms—a backstage lounge where performers relax—we introduced The Green Room, our online series of revealing conversations and personal connections with artists and their performances.
The online format has expanded free access to our programs. In the fall, 25% of The Green Room programs were offered at no cost; and Sonoma State Students and essential worker audiences could access 100% of the programming for free.
We have also been able to have an impact on students of all ages during this challenging time. We have hosted dozens of artist engagement activities with university classes, faculty, and local K-12 schools through online discussions and workshops. Thank you for your support, which has allowed us to think creatively, engage deeply, and work with artists in new ways to enact our mission and values.
