While celebrations are, and will be, in order, right now the Venice Performing Arts Center (VPAC) is quietly turning 10 years old. Mike and Bonnie Hartley were there at the beginning. They are also the founders of the Venice Institute for Performing Arts (VIPA)–formed to manage and operate VPAC. Here, they reflect on significant milestones that brought the cultural cornerstone to fruition.
"The formation of the Venice Performing Arts Center goes back a couple of decades," Mike explained. "People in the city commissioned a feasibility study to see if our market could support a performing arts center. The first study was negative, but a second study in the early 2000s came back positive."
With Venice High School scheduled to be rebuilt, an opportunity arose to create a joint facility, Mike explained. The town convinced the city council to set aside a 1-cent tax, raising an additional $7.5 million, which, combined with the school district's funding, would support a state-of-the-art performance space.
Special Construction: Tilt-Wall
Construction began in 2012, utilizing innovative tilt-wall construction to erect the structure quickly and efficiently. The VPAC opened its doors in 2014. An interlocal agreement required an oversight committee, and Mike was asked to provide leadership.
Early challenges included determining staffing and ensuring the facility provided cultural and social returns on investment. They envisioned a non-profit organization, the Venice Institute for Performing Arts (VIPA), to manage the venue, raise funds, and support school activities.
Bonnie Hartley, a former academic, emphasizes the importance of education in their mission. "We developed a flourishing apprentice program for juniors and seniors to work in all areas of theatre management. From the very beginning, it mattered a lot to both of us. My background in performing arts and academia helped shape our educational goals." Bonnie's background includes a PhD in contemporary Spanish poetry, an MBA, and extensive work in family business and conflict resolution.
100's of Performances Annually
Today, VPAC is a resounding success. It hosts hundreds of performances annually and has seen significant growth each year, except during the COVID-19 pandemic. The Hartleys are no longer involved in day-to-day management but remain active as board members. They are helping to plan anniversary celebrations for the 2024-25 season to honor those who have been instrumental in VPAC's success, particularly Venice High School.
Bonnie noted, "From the very beginning, we collected every piece of data to understand our demographics and make informed decisions. We have people driving from Miami to see certain programs." Mike added, "We've hosted the Vienna Boys Choir, the Dallas Brass, and many other notable performers, engaging artists for extra educational activities."
Grateful for the community's support, the Hartleys continue to cherish their work with students and the backing from the school district and faculty. "We are thrilled that it works and continues to grow," said Bonnie, who then expressed the couple’s deep appreciation for the collaborative effort that has made VPAC a cultural cornerstone in Venice.