Even for the most resolution-averse, the New Year is a
time when we reflect on the past and consider our intentions for the future. At
BAM, this is especially resonant as we are undergoing considerable and exciting
changes.
David Binder will officially assume his position as artistic
director today. The upcoming Winter/Spring Season will be the
final one programmed by our legendary Executive Producer Joseph V. Melillo,
whose vision has guided us for 35 years. While it is difficult to imagine BAM
without Joe, we are thrilled to have David join our organization. Together with
BAM’s extraordinary curators led by Gina Duncan in film, and Coco Killingsworth
in creative learning, David is in the midst of programming his first season.
In order to complete much anticipated changes to our campus,
the beloved BAM Harvey Theater will be closed until October 2019. The
renovation and expansion will create a larger lobby, house a new visual art
gallery, and provide new elevators and stairs for greater accessibility.
Inclusion and accessibility are at the forefront of our
priorities not just through these physical changes. This year, we began an
organization-wide process to examine our own areas of bias and inequity. This
process will create an even richer foundation for artistic programming that can
speak to more of our neighbors in this incredible borough and beyond.
Last year I wrote of the wrenching instability facing so
many in our world. Sadly that has not changed, and I believe each of us must do
what we can. At BAM, we have committed to a process that will deliver greater
equity in everything that we do. I hope you will join us on this journey, and I
look forward to seeing you at BAM.
Wishing peace and joy in 2019.
© 2019 Brooklyn Academy of Music, Inc. All rights reserved.
Best of luck to you too! Hope this year will be blessed for you!
ReplyDeleteUndoubtedly, Joseph V. Melillo is legendary Executive Producer. This is a serious change for Bam because Joe made a valuable impact in this company and it is very hard to imagine him to be leaving.
ReplyDeleteIndeed a great new year message. Keep posting blog like this
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