2008 may seem like forever ago.
For me, I was a freshman in high school – fresh-faced, excited to learn, and crushing on lots of high school seniors – definitely in my Taylor Swift fan girl phase.
There was no knowledge of COVID, of Chinese balloons, or $4 gallons of gas. Johnny Depp was known for being named Best Actor during the People’s Choice Awards, Eli Manning was the Giants’ starting Quarterback, Hulu became a thing, Airbnb was founded, Brittney Spears won big at the MTV Music Awards, and of course, we can’t forget Lady Gaga’s debut album being released.
And as for Eatonton in 2008, a jewel was unveiled when The Plaza Arts Center opened its doors to the public. From the minds of Tom Rosseter and a group of Leadership Putnam participants, the doors of The Plaza swung open, and we haven’t looked back since.
In celebrating the big 1-5, I have taken a look back at what we have accomplished. The Plaza has a booming arts education program that’s growing nearly every week with our After School Arts Program. The Old School History Museum is being visited by people from many states away. PAPA is performing here at least twice a year. Our summer camps have grown tremendously; in fact, our programming in general has grown tremendously.
I think The Plaza is truly coming into its own as what our founders imagined it would be.
This year, we have an entertainment lineup that features a show every single month. We have three free community events, several Master Classes, a few Whiskey Sessions – a new program started just last year – a growing Broadway Intensive Program, new Coffee Houses in conjunction with The Arts Barn, and fascinating Sunday at The Museum lectures – not to mention several more surprises up our sleeves.
To be working at The Plaza during its 15th year is something special. I see the excitement in our board members, in our new patrons, in our founders –we are creating magic every time performers step onto the stage. And for that, I am grateful.
In a world that is much more complex for me than it was 15 years ago, it’s nice to remember the simple things - live music is magic, comedians are hilarious, kids say the darnedest things – and sometimes dreams really do become realities.
Please take some time this year to come and tour The Plaza, speak to Mr. Rosseter, sit in the theater, and enjoy a show. Come learn about the history of Eatonton at the museum – come spend some time at your local theater. I promise you will not regret it.