The Alex Theatre deserves an audience

As a 30-year resident, business owner and supporter of Glendale Arts and the Alex Theatre, I must express my disappointment and disbelief at the lack of support for the Alex Theatre. I am bewildered at the lack of interest toward the world-class performers that are being brought there.

At no time was this more clearly evidenced than last Saturday night, when the theater was filled, if not by seated patrons, with the energy and enthusiasm of Matt Catingub, a first-rate showman, directing the top-notch talents of the Glendale Pops Jazz Orchestra with special guest Miles Mosley, a transcendental artist that was like seeing a modern-day cross between Jimi Hendrix and Eric Clapton playing a bass. That’s right a bass, and wowing the audience while doing it. It is precisely this kind of creative booking that Elissa Glickman, the chief executive of Glendale Arts, is capable of and that we can now expect from her. But it would be a crying shame if you don’t go to the show.

I am quite aware of the challenges brought on by a weak economy, and the need for making our entertainment dollars stretch, but ticket prices at the Alex are quite reasonably priced. The theater is conveniently located. There are plenty of places to eat or sip on a drink within walking distance, before or after the show. I just cannot understand why these shows do not sell out. What will it take for Glendalians to realize what we have here? What will it take to give the Alex a little love?

Mike Velazquez
Glendale