Auction set to support A&T theater program

MARYSVILLE Just as one teacher is pushing to expand the technology offerings of the school districts Arts and Technology School, parents and others are looking to make sure the arts portion of the curriculum isnt forgotten.
Although it has existed as a small learning community for several years, the A and T school moved into a new building all its own in December.
Sitting right in the center of that building, just inside the main doors, is a large auditorium space complete with a stage. But in the opinion of several observers, that stage is lacking a few things: theatrical curtains, lighting and a sound system, to start with.
Drama is a strong focus of our new building, said Principal Frank Redmond, noting the central location of the auditorium and stage. It makes sense to have it equipped as a functioning theater.
It would definitely help students understand all aspects of the theater, said Tarek Al-Rashid, a drama teacher at the A and T school.
Its a beautiful gathering space, parent Lana Magnan said of the auditorium area. Unfortunately, funding didnt provide for many things in the room.
It wasnt about not supporting the drama program, Redmond said, adding he hopes a fully functioning theater can be used by the outside community, not just the school. He envisions open mic nights and community theater groups sharing the facility.
For now, the space is the A and T school cafeteria. That will change in the spring, Redmond said, with the opening of a centralized kitchen. That facility will serve the entirety of the so-called options campus, of which the A and T school is just one piece.
With the hopes of fully equipping the stage and auditorium, Magnan is heading up a fundraising auction and catered dinner set for April 5 at the Hawthorn Inn and Suites, 16710 Smokey Point Blvd., Arlington. Organizers hope to raise $10,000 for theater equipment that should become the legacy of the A and T school Class of 2008.
Magnans group currently is looking for any items that might be auction worthy. They plan both a silent and live auction. The evening will include the Tulalip Tribe dancers performing a welcoming song and the A and T student choir. Q13-TV sports personality Dan Devone is scheduled to emcee the event.
Tickets are $40 per person or $280 for a table of eight. For more information, call Magnan at 425-577-0306 or Shelly Berry, senior parents committee president, at 360-659-5807.

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