Like most college-age students across America, the last two years of my college career were spent answering the almost daily question (especially from my parents) about my plans after graduation. As a public relations major and music minor, my answer was always pretty simple: to work at an institution like the Kimmel Center or get signed as one of the best vocalists since Dinah Washington. Well, nine months, a pinch of luck and a crazy twist of fate later, the first part of my dream came true and I now proudly hand out my first official business card with the title Public Relations Assistant under my name.
At first, some of my peers questioned my choice to work for a non-profit performing arts venue, which they assumed, catered mainly to an older affluent crowd. Little did they know I had been given the opportunity to work at one of the most diverse and community-minded performing arts venues in the nation. My mission as a 23 year-old publicist suddenly became abundantly loud and clear: help spread the word, and spread the word fast, that the Kimmel Center is not just classical, but, in fact, hip.
This Friday alone, the Kimmel Center is hosting one of the most unprecedented nights of music Philadelphia has seen since Live 8, with none other than the city’s own hip-hop phenomenon The Roots performing in the hall the Philadelphia Orchestra calls home. Add indie bands Deer Hoof, TV on the Radio and Shawn Hewitt & The National Strike, special guest artists and a free surprise (shhh, you didn’t hear that from me) post-show event to the mix, and it’s going to be hard to think of the Kimmel Center as just classical ever again.
So fellow bloggers, don’t just read about the hottest party in town on next week’s blog entry. Turn off your computer now (unless you’re going to buy on the web!), and RUN, don’t walk, to get your tickets. See you Friday!
Best of luck with what will certainly be an exciting season!
To my Dinah Washington....I hope this weekend is the best....because you are the best. Good Luck!