On Centre: Around Philipsburg

Couple put arts front and center

Lori Falce

There’s a new way to perform in Philipsburg.

Front and Centre Productions is under construction as a new, nonprofit performing arts group. The mission, according to organizer Steve Switala, is “to provide high-quality performing arts experiences for the cultural education, entertainment and inspiration of the

Moshannon Valley communities; to foster and develop artistic talents and skills of all participants;

and to encourage public appreciation of the performing arts and to develop future audiences and supporters of the arts.”

Switala and his wife, Jennifer, have been driving forces behind the Moshannon Valley YMCA’s theatrical productions but see the new group as a way to focus more directly on the arts and how they fit into the community.

An ambitious schedule of events is being planned, including a June staging of “You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown” with a college-age cast, a Heritage Days children’s production of “101 Dalmatians” and a late July presentation of “Fiddler on the Roof” by the Summer Youth Theatre, as well as an all-ages holiday event with “The Best Christmas Pageant Ever.”

The group also wants to explore other creative avenues, including choreography, scenic design, movement and improvisation, creative writing and more.

In the meantime, Front and Centre is pursuing 501(c)3 nonprofit status and collecting donations that will allow them to bring the arts to Philipsburg.

In addition to cash donations, they are seeking all the things that make theater possible, including costumes, makeup, wood, lights, microphones and behind-the-scenes necessities such as computers, copiers, filing cabinets and storage containers.

For more information, follow Front and Centre on Facebook.

Lori Falce writes a weekly column featuring news and happenings in the Rush Township/Philipsburg area. Send comments and suggestions to her at sendlorinews@gmail.com.