Why Metropolis? I am proud to be a part of an organization that enriches the lives of so many in our community. Whether it’s the buzz I hear in our lobby from audience members or the excitement of students in the elevator on their way to lessons at the School of the Performing Arts, I am energized in knowing that Metropolis has touched every one of them.

Our theatre is one of most amazing places in the northwest suburbs. Long before I joined the Metropolis Board of Directors, I was taken with the intimacy of the space and the amazing productions. The quality of our shows rivals what’s playing at any downtown Chicago theatre. As a board member, I’ve made a point of reaching out to our audience members, especially those who are visiting us for the first time, to see what they like (or don’t like) about what we do. And the most common feedback I get is that our shows provide a wonderful, professional evening of entertainment without the hassle of driving and parking downtown.

The School of the Performing Arts has fostered the growth of so many talented children and adults. To think that someone walking through our doors today could be touching piano keys for the first time, and that first touch could lead to a spectacular career in the arts, is overwhelming.  I’m so proud to know that Metropolis enriches our students’ lives with the skills that will be carried forward, whether it’s to the Broadway stage or the corporate boardroom.  (Having chosen the latter path, I can tell you the ability to think on your feet comes in handy.)

The team at Metropolis is the most dedicated, energetic, and enthusiastic group of individuals I’ve ever met. I can say without exaggeration that I have seen these people perform near-miracles in their everyday work. Without them, there would be no Metropolis. Their energy is infectious, and every time I walk through our space and speak with the staff, I walk out with a renewed sense of pride in what we do.

Finally, it’s the community that makes me glad to be a part of Metropolis. Since joining the board, I’ve had hundreds of conversations with our patrons and community members and have learned what they love about us and where they think we can improve. The support we get from the citizens and businesses in Arlington Heights and our neighboring villages reinforces the fact that Metropolis is an important part of our community and our lives. And we intend on being here for a very long time.

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