In the last 10 years, 82% of all schools in Vermont have attended a show at the Flynn.
Produced by the Flynn, the annual jazz festival is one of the largest and most cherished events in the area, and has featured over 1,000 hours of free live music in the last decade
The Flynn welcomes astonishing local, national, and global artists to our stages, presenting a wealth of diverse voices across a wide variety of art forms.
The Flynn offers classes and camps year round, developing opportunities for students of all ages and backgrounds to discover their creativity and passions.
Artist residencies, community outreach programs, unconventional programming, student matinee shows, and beyond, not to mention protecting the legacy of our beloved, historic theater, which has been at the center of the city since 1930.
How long have you been a member?
34 years!
What made you decide to become a member?
Several reasons. Practically, we liked the benefit of early ticket sales, which meant better choice of seats and a discount. Sentimentally, my parents had their first date at the Flynn, in 1933, and I came to movies at the Flynn as a kid. Later I brought our girls to Lilliput programs as they grew up. Most importantly, however, I came to appreciate the efforts of those who work so hard to preserve this beautiful art deco theater.
What role do you think the Flynn plays in the community?
The Flynn brings big-city artists and shows to a relatively small city. It gives the next generation the opportunity to see age- and content-appropriate live theater through the student matinees. In an age when art funding is being cut, the Flynn offers all kinds of classes to increase exposure and skills to all ages. It is an arts center that grows with the times in content, and addresses the diversity that exists today.
Is there anything you like the community to know about the Flynn, that you didn't before you joined?
I have been increasingly aware of the barriers that in the past have made theater available only for those more wealthy and physically able. The new emphasis that Everybody Belongs at the Flynn makes the theater more accessible to many who could not attend before, either through scholarships, special programming, or just increased awareness of how welcoming the Flynn is to all. The variety of shows also widens the base of the attendees. I also appreciate the push to encourage local talent to grow through classes offered with the chance to perform live on-stage.
How long have you been members?
15 years.
What made you decide to become a member?
When we first started dating 15 years ago, we spoke about what was important to us in life—our values and beliefs. We quickly realized how much we had in common, and one big area was our love of the arts. Both of us had attended Flynn shows over the years and we knew it would be something we’d continue to enjoy as a couple. So we made the decision early on in our life together to support the Flynn as members.
What role do you think the Flynn plays in the community?
The Flynn is a gem that continuously enriches our lives. That is why we support the Flynn by frequently attending events, being annual donors, and including the Flynn in our estate planning. Now that we are married, we can’t imagine our life without the Flynn. We’ve attended numerous shows, including watching musicians, comedians, singers, dancers, and performers, as well as attending Lyric Theatre events. We hope everyone gets to experience this wonderful venue and organization!
Why are Flynn performances especially meaningful for you?
The Flynn helps us experience life through all our senses and we can’t help smiling every time we walk through the door. Our lives are so much richer because of the Flynn. We are always inviting friends to join us for a fun evening out.
How long have you been members?
We have been members for four years, since our first involvement with Over the Edge for the Flynn in 2016.
What made you decide to become a member?
When the Flynn asked us to become a main sponsor for the event, it seemed like a natural partnership. We were able to provide training to give more confidence to Edgers, and our knowledge of the vertical world helped the process run more smoothly the day of the event. With our partnership/membership we get to support a great event that benefits the Flynn, and in turn, the community.
What role do you think the Flynn plays in the community?
Every time I see a school bus in front of the Flynn, I think about how lucky those kids are to have a field trip that day. Even as an adult, my worldview has expanded from sitting in a seat at the Flynn. We are fortunate to have a connection to the arts, and the Flynn’s focus on accessibility makes our community much richer.
Why are Flynn performances especially meaningful for you?
All Flynn performances for us spark joy, wonder, and so much fun. We will never forget one performance in particular: Hot Brown Honey. The show had been recommended by Flynn staff but we had no idea what to expect. Steve had been struggling with double vision and nerve damage in one eye. During the performance he turned to me and said, “You know, this is the first time I have felt normal in a very long time.” Within a couple days, his double vision had gone away. Who knows if it was a coincidence, but we’ll always associate a healing moment with that show!
This listing reflects gifts received and processed as of October 25, 2024.