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Performing Arts in Rochester, a newly launched nonprofit, aims to connect local arts organizations with community patrons and corporate sponsors and ease the financial barriers to getting work onstage.
“PAIR was founded on a simple, yet powerful, belief — that a thriving arts community requires a strong financial foundation,” says Natalie Fuller, executive director. “We also streamline the process of presenting shows, allowing artists to spend more time creating, as we provide access to performance space, production assistance, and visibility to a wider demographic of patrons.”
Fuller, an Eastman School of Music alumnus, and her husband, Karl Stabnau, are known for their work with the Theater at Innovation Square. The 700-seat venue, which opened in 2021, aimed to serve the local performing arts community. However, they found that a lack of theater space and significant financial assistance often prevent organizations from presenting their work.
To help with that, Fuller is now focused on PAIR, using the Theater at Innovation Square as a partner space to showcase productions supported by PAIR and donors. For corporate donors looking to support the performing arts, PAIR provides a reliable, transparent pathway that directly supports impactful and entertaining projects, officials say. Jazz musician Mike Cottone and Marc Iacona, co-producer of the Rochester International Jazz Festival and president/CEO of Simcona Electronics, serve with Fuller on PAIR’s board.
Five Star Bank has agreed to support the inaugural performance series next year.
“We are thrilled to support PAIR and the inspiring artists who will share their talents and creativity with our Rochester community through the Five Star Bank Series presented by PAIR,” says Martin Birmingham, president and CEO of Five Star Bank. “As a local community bank, we seek to support cultural initiatives and create opportunities for the communities we serve. We’re proud to be PAIR’s inaugural partner and excited to see this innovative series grow and enrich our community in the process.”
PAIR encourages emerging and established performing art groups to apply. These may include dance and theater companies, musical groups and individual artists presenting collaborative work. The organization intends to help with needs like staffing costs, marketing, and venue rental. PAIR-supported organizations will be able to keep profits from ticket sales, officials say, in addition to the financial assistance.
Smriti Jacob is Rochester Beacon managing editor.
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