METAIRIE, LA – The Jefferson Performing Arts Society is ringing in the holiday season with performances of “Sister Act” and “The Nutcracker,” and continued participation in a mobile fund drive.
Dennis G. Assaf, JPAS’ co-founder, Executive and Artistic Director, released the following holiday message:
“’It's the most wonderful time of the year!’ That's what the song declares, and while it's certainly true, it's also the busiest time of the year for those of us in the performing arts business. For JPAS it means simultaneously performing ‘Sister Act,’ then loading it out while loading in our new, huge production of ‘The Nutcracker,’ complete with rigging for the ‘flying effects’ by ZFX. And lastly, coordinating rehearsals and scenic elements for the opening show of 2016, ‘The Light in the Piazza.’ It never ends! Of course our eyes never lose sight of planning for the 39th season, which opens July 1,2016! ‘On and On and On and On’ (sings Steve Perry).
“If you saw ‘Sister Act,’ please share the good news with your friends and families. It's a rocking good show with a tremendous cast, and of course, the JPAS Broadway Pit Orchestra really takes the show to the top. There is nothing like a professional orchestra in the pit.
“The Sunday performance of ‘The Nutcracker’ is getting close to selling out, while Saturday is closely behind. With over 100 dancers, a beautiful new set we purchased from Kansas City Ballet, and special flying effects for Clara, Fritz and the Angels, this New Production of ‘The Nutcracker’ is the one to see this holiday season. I am also excited to welcome Maestra Cristina Greco from Sardegna, Italy as our guest conductor.
“It's not too late to purchase a gift certificate for a mini season or for next season. The gift of a memorable cultural experience will last long after that smoked turkey is gone, or Aunt Josephine's fruit cake is stashed away for next year. Get off the couch this season, and take the family to enjoy our fabulous productions in our new home. Come see why critics have commented that the new JPAC is a fine addition to the cultural life of our community.
“Finally, if you have a wounded veteran in your family or know of any, please call our office and we will extend complimentary tickets to them and their families. The work we do on stage would not be possible without the security provided to us by our Armed Forces. And so, on behalf of our Board of Directors, we thank them for their service.
“Wishing all of you a safe and happy Christmas, Hanukkah, and Holiday Season I will… See You at The Theatre!”
The JPAS is also utilizing a new fund drive technique that makes it easy for fans to contribute to their organization: Fund Tag.
By using mobile devices, those who want to donate to the JPAS can snap a picture of a restaurant or store receipt, send it to Fund Tag, and participating merchant sends a portion of the sale to JPAS, or the charity of your choice.
You can support the JPAS by snapping receipts from JCPenney, Macy’s, Saks and Target.
Participating Stores in Jefferson Parish include:
• Frost Top, 810 Clearview Pkwy.
• Nacho Mamas, 1000 S Clearview Pkwy.
• Baskin-Robbins, 4015 Veterans Memorial Blvd.
• Quiznos Restaurants, Westgate Shopping Center, 2315 Veterans Memorial Blvd.
• ZoZo Café, 3620 N Causeway Blvd.
• Helm Paint, 6820 Veterans Memorial Blvd.
• True Value Hardware, 1316 N Causeway Blvd.
• Carpet and Flooring Connection, 5101 W Esplanade Ave.
• Hertz Rent-a-Car, 4531 Veterans Memorial Blvd.
Founded in 1978 by Assaf and Hannah Cunningham, the Jefferson Performing Arts Society is a nonprofit professional arts organization whose mission is to promote arts performance, training, and outreach by providing a diverse range of quality programs that entertain, educate and enrich the cultural and economic vitality of Jefferson Parish, Greater New Orleans and the Gulf South.
JPAS focuses on three main elements:
• Performance: JPAS annually provides a wide range of theatrical performances that appeal to many interests and age groups. Most seasons include a selection of grand opera, musical theater, dance and music. JPAS strives to network and partner with national and international artists and companies to bring new and diverse programming to the Southern Region.
• Training: JPAS provides performance and technical based training in the arts for all ages with a particular focus on young people.
• Outreach: JPAS provides arts education programming in local area schools, as well as access to professional theatrical experiences that align to classroom curricula and Louisiana Content Standards, including Arts Adventure Series, Cultural Crossroads and Stage Without A Theatre. JPAS provides performers, musicians, artistic experiences and expertise to select area events and organizations to enrich the community.
The Jefferson Performing Arts Society believes:
• In the positive power of the arts in the community as a tool for education, expression, cultural understanding and overall improvement of quality of life.
• In the role of the arts as an economic stimulus in the community.
• It is important to provide artistic outlets and opportunities for both amateur and professional artists.
• The arts can draw attention and involve those within communities while nurturing cooperative ties across all borders.
