Dennis Arp
Chapman President Jim Doti expresses the University’s gratitude to Marybelle and Sebastian P. Musco and the workers who built Musco Center.
For many in the audience, it was a first chance to see Chapman University’s new Musco Center for the Arts all dressed up in its Sunday finery. For the Chapman community, it was an opportunity to say thank you to the myriad construction workers and trades people who turned an architectural vision into a vibrant, world-class arts venue.
Gratitude mixed with awe throughout the concert for hardhat workers held Sunday, Feb. 28, at Marybelle and Sebastian P. Musco Center for the Arts. In his welcoming remarks, President Doti spoke for many in the audience and at the University as he scanned the grand setting that is Julianne Argyros Orchestra Hall.
“Wow, wow, wow!” Doti said as he gestured toward the orchestra shell behind him and then out to the hall’s sea of 1,044 seats, many of which were being occupied for the first time. “We are grateful to all of you who contributed your creativity and your hard work so that this dream could be realized for the students of Chapman University.
In recognizing the generosity, vision and leadership of the Muscos, who attended Sunday’s concert, Doti noted that their business, Gemini Industries, is widely hailed for its commitment to its employees and the quality of its work environment. From the stage, many of the performers joined Doti in expressing their thanks to all of the workers who helped build Musco Center.
A performer from the International Dance Conservatory of the Orange County School of the Arts enlivens the Hardhat Concert.
The Hardhat Concert itself featured a blend of community and student singers, dancers and musicians, including the Chapman University Jazz Panthers, the Chapman Soundcheck a cappella group and the Wimberley Bluegrass Band. After the show closed with a lively set by the Mariachi Divas, a reception was held in Bette and Wylie Aitken Arts Plaza, enhancing a day rich with appreciation.
Another day of welcome and warmth is on the horizon. On Saturday, April 2, the Musco Center will host a Community Open House and Arts Festival, featuring students from the College of Performing Arts as well as many other arts organizations, including the Pacific Symphony and the Philharmonic Society of Orange County.
More information on this free all-day event is at
Musco Center website
.
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