Tomorrow is my final performance. There’s no better artist for the occasion than pianist Yuja Wang. Her debut here ten years ago was a pivotal moment in Soraya history. A full house and rowdy reception were proof of concept that the Valley audience would support an ambitious classical music series.
In my final days, I can breathe easy — this season’s tickets are already sold, annual record-breaking revenue already earned, and next season’s performances already booked. Looking ahead, The Soraya staff has readied the organization in every way for a new leader. This has been my foremost wish since I decided to retire from CSUN more than a year ago.
This week’s Director Selects marks the final edition. These weekly Friday emails began during the pandemic and have grown to become central to The Soraya’s activities. More than anything else, these artist interviews cause people to stop me on the street to offer their appreciation for direct access to artists and the artistic process.
Today’s is not an interview, but rather a compilation of programming highlights from the last 12 years, selected from 120 original productions, commissions, and premieres. This body of work stands as testament to The Soraya’s dedicated team, the breadth and variety of our programs, the appetite of the audience, and the artists, many local, who have transported us with their imagination and expertise.
Before I leave, I have one final goal. In December the Nazarian family created a fund specific to the purpose of supporting these types of programs long into The Soraya’s future. They generously named the fund for me, the most meaningful gesture I could imagine upon my departure. In my final days, I hope to “top off” that fund, and so I appeal to our shared commitment to the performing arts here in the Valley and greater Los Angeles. Another $200,000 would go a long way on behalf of future generations of artists and audiences yet to enliven The Soraya.
To contribute to the Thor Steingraber Fund for Artistic Innovation, click here. I ask with gratitude for the past and confidence in the future. Thank you.
Gratefully,
