Solvang Rotary Club awards $5,000 grant to Solvang Theaterrefest | Arts & Entertainment

Solvang Rotary Club members Allan Jones (left) and Linda Johansen; Theaterrefest Board Vice Chair Ann Foxworthy-Lewellen; Ellen Albertoni, Solvang Rotary Club; Solvang Rotary President Rick Weber; executive Director. (courtesy photo)

Solvang Theaterrefest and the Rotary Club of Solvang teamed up to present comedian Brian Regan live at the rebuilt Solvang Festival Theatre, and the combination of provocative comedy, collaborative effort and renovated venue proved to be a winning combination.

Solvang Theaterrefest and Solvang’s Rotary Club split the proceeds of sold-out shows, and Rotary used some of its funds to donate $5,000 to Imagine at Theatrefest! Building the Future capital campaign to fund a recently completed $5.3 million renovation project.

“A big thank you to the Theaterrefest staff and board who gave the green light to the theater’s first comedy show,” said Solvang Rotary Club Activities Chair, Allan Jones. “We had great support from local business sponsors and fans from all over the Central Coast, making for a truly special evening that exceeded our fundraising goal.”

In addition to the Theatrefest donation, the event enables the Rotary Club of Solvang to fund local projects such as Sunnyfields Park; international projects such as polio eradication and fresh water provision; and local student scholarships, senior service and local nonprofits.

The redevelopment of the theater began in September 2021 and will be completed in July 2022, ensuring structural integrity, safety and accessibility through new electrical and technical capabilities, enhanced lighting and acoustics.

Overall, the design improves audience experience and comfort with taller walls, acoustic improvements, and new seating; making it one of the most attractive and newest outdoor theaters in Santa Barbara County.

“It’s a pleasure to be working with Theatrefest to bring such a quality show to the Santa Ynez Valley,” Jones said. “Laughter is said to be the best medicine. Everyone says they feel better after the show. We hope to have Brian Regan back next year for the re-enactment and provide another medical service to our community.”

For more information, contact Solvang Theaterfest Executive Director Scott Coe at exec.director@solvangtheaterfest.org or call 805-588-4112.To learn more about Capital Motion, visit https://solvangtheaterfest.org/campaign.php.