New Britt Board Member, Lori Buerk and her husband, Rob, hosted a Britt Open House at their lovely home in Jacksonville on Friday, April 8.
Jim Fredericks, Executive Director of Britt spoke at length to the group of Jacksonville Residents about Britt’s exciting new lineup and changes on Britt Hill. The main discussion surrounded facts about Britt’s need for new Members and funds to keep the Festival viable and alive.
Britt loses about $250,000 a year – and at this pace, will be done in three years. Ticket prices go to the artists, and these costs continue to increase. Concessions in the past, run by Jacksonville & Medford Rotary, have netted .56 cents a head – most venues earn earn anywhere from $4 – $12 a head. Rotary has provided a wonderful service, but due to the need for more money to come to Britt, concessions will now be run by an independent company. This company will hire locals to run the food & beverage stands and is currently fixing and repairing the concession food areas to enhance the refrigeration, heating, cooking and serving areas.
The food selections will be more varied & plentiful with Greek, Asian, & classic American offerings. No entree will cost more than $8.00. Wine selection will also be increased with numerous local wineries providing tastes and full pours. A nifty new plastic bottle can be purchased which holds an entire bottle of wine.
The areas around the concessions are also been updated to have nice seating and spots to enjoy pre-concert food & wine.
Angela Warren, who heads-up the Classical Festival spoke about the exciting Classical Season, with some amazing guest musicians. The orchestra is one of the best in the county, with 94 musicians selected from auditions from all over the country. More than 90% of these musicians this year are returning from past attendance. It is a very popular venue! Most classical concerts allow free admittance for rehearsals. This year, certain Britt Membership levels will also provide entry to Classical Rehearsals featuring a Guest Performer. What a great opportunity to sit under the stars, with only a handful of other guests on the beautiful Britt Hill and listen to Classical in a relaxed, informal manner.
So – bottom line is this: Britt needs Members to keep the festival going. This is a non-profit organization that is a HUGE asset to Southern Oregon and Jacksonville. The quality of the artists is second to none, the venue is fantastic and your support is needed!! The Jacksonville Review stepped up our support this year, with a Sponsorship of the K.D. Lang Concert!! We value this venue – it was one of the reasons we moved here almost 5 years ago!
Visit Brittfest.org for details and benefits of membership and the fabulous 2011 lineup!
Britt Festival is one of the reasons I chose to live in Ashland. This year, I became a member. I encourage others to do the same. There are great benefits to membership above and beyond knowing that you are supporting a terrific organization.
Thanks Christine!