The Strand was thrilled with this past weekend’s show.  Tim Spradlin and his performers did a wonderful job on stage.  We had one audience member sobbing during Cindy Houpt’s rendition of “Ave Maria”.  It was very moving.   Along with the wonderful entertainment our live feed from Iraq was a success.   Channel 13 reporter (and now Strand volunteer) Emily Longnecker was pressed into service to do the interview on Friday night.  Saturday night our own Cindy Houpt did the interview.   You can watch the Saturday night version on our web site, just click on the VIDEOS tab.

The Strand would like to thank Staff Sgt. Les Newport, Staff Sgt. Jeff Lowry and all the military crew that helped make this happen.    We also need to thank Comcast for being a leader and helping us out when we needed it.   There is a graphic on our web site that explains the technology behind the event.   We look forward to having the Indiana National Guard participate in future events at the Strand.   We also want to thank WTHR Channel 13 & WRTV Channel 6 assignment editors for noticing what we are doing and helping get our story out.

Did you drive by the theatre at night this week?  Notice anything?   Steve D. and Darin M. spent the whole day Tuesday wiring our marquee.  For the first time in over 40 years all 5 marquee panels are lit.  We are still working on the sockets for the chase lights.  Once it is completely finished we will have a big ‘ol lighting ceremony.   This is something that will impact our downtown landscape for decades to come.

This weekend the Strand presents the final performances of the 2009 Season.   ROCKPHORIA – ONE HIT WONDERS will be onstage Friday and Saturday night.  This marks the 145th & 146th performance of the season.   If you love Rock & Roll, you will love this show.   This is the third time the Rockphoria band has formed.   The show, conceived and directed by Joey Gaudin, is the largest funding show the Stand has in its lineup.   If you want to support the Strand, attendance at this concert is an easy way to do it.   We need your attendance, and we need your support.  The musicians have been rehearsing for many weeks to make this the best possible performance.  These are all performers that have performed on the Strand stage with their various bands.   They come together specifically to give us a financial boost (and have some fun to boot).  The Strand receives 100% of the proceeds.

As we head into the New Year we look forward to all the great things that 2010 will bring.

Your support and encouragement are greatly appreciated.   We look forward to seeing you at ROCKPHORIA!