By David Powdrell
So here’s the deal….Living in a small town isn’t for everyone, but it was among the best decisions my wife and I ever made. Carpinteria has a grand total of 3 stop lights. Biking or walking are your best modes of transportation. The sense of community in a small town is undeniable. The pace of life is more relaxed, a bit slower.
Which leads me to the ever popular, always entertaining, Carpinteria Talent Showcase held Saturday night at the 95-year-old Alcazar Theater. Twenty wildly creative acts danced, sang, played music, told jokes, improvised, and celebrated their respective artforms at the sold out event. The Rotary Club of Carpinteria hosts the annual event and 100% of the net proceeds are used to support the music programs in the Carpinteria Unified School District. To date, that figure exceeds $200,000!
The apprehensive look in the eyes of a performer as they take to the stage (many for the first time) versus the glow and excitement as they exit the stage to the roar of an exuberant crowd is nothing short of magic.
A huge thank you to the Alcazar Theater, all the sponsors, volunteers, performers, attendees and to the infamous John Palminteri, our emcee for the last 14 years.
The handful of attached photos give a glimpse of the beauty that comes with living in a small town laced with an incredible array of talented performance artists. Communities rich in the arts are vibrant. The Arts Matter!
Now, if CalTrans can just finish the darn freeway project!
How cool! Wish I would have known, I love a talent show
wow, a stab of memory and feeling — I sure do miss Flicka/Judy Pearce!
Yes, Carpinteria is a great place to live (I’m back in SB now). Thanks, Dave, your posts are always uplifting.
I’ve been four times – it is a unique and truly enjoyable experience 🙂 Thanks to the Rotary Club, Alcazar, David, John and all the talent who make it so special. I hope y’all sell out again next year !!
The smiles are beautiful.