City of Culver City, California
City Council Agenda Item Report
RECOMMENDATION:
Staff recommends the City Council consider the recommendation of the Cultural
Affairs Commission (the “CAC”) and award funds for the 2008 Performing Arts Grant
program to the applicants specified.
BACKGROUND:
Culver City’s Performing Arts Grant Program was established in 1994. The Culver
City Municipal Code stipulates that 25% of the money deposited into the Art Fund in
the prior fiscal year be appropriated for this program for the current fiscal year. For
FY 2007-08, the budgeted amount from the Art Fund is $50,000. To this, an
additional $15,000 has been allocated by the City Council from a larger contribution
made in 2007 by Sony Pictures Entertainment. The total amount available for
Performing Arts Grants for 2008 is $65,000.
The CAC considered the 2008 NOFA (Notice of Funding Availability) at their regular
meeting on July 10, 2007 and reviewed changes to the NOFA including
requirements for each grant recipient to obtain a City business license and to review
marketing plans with Cultural Affairs staff. The 2008 NOFA also included
information on the Kirk Douglas Theatre Community Access Program. Subsequent
to discussion, the Commission approved the document. During the week of July 23,
2007, the 2008 NOFA was posted on the City’s web site, and notices were
distributed electronically to former applicants, individuals and organizations included
in the Cultural Affairs master contact database, the City’s Master Notification System
and Los Angeles Culture Net which is the listserv of the Los Angeles County Arts
Meeting Date: 12/10/07 Item Number: A-2
AGENDA ITEM: Consideration and Award of 2008 Performing Arts Grant Awards
as Recommended by the Cultural Affairs Commission.
Contact Person/Dept.: Susan Obrow Phone Number: (310) 253-5762
Fiscal Impact: Yes [X] No [] General Fund: Yes [] No [X]
Public Hearing: [] Action Item: [X] Attachments: [X]
Public Notification: Master Notification List (12/05/07), 2008 Performing Art Grant
Applicants (12/05/07), Cultural Affairs Commission (12/05/07), Cultural Affairs
Foundation Board (12/05/07)
Department Approval:
Sol Blumenfeld (11/26/07)
City Attorney Approval:
Carol Schwab (by H. Iker) (12/03/07)
Fiscal Impact Review:
Marlee Chang (12/05/07)
City Manager Approval:
Jerry B. Fulwood (12/05/07) City of Culver City, California
City Council Agenda Item Report
Commission. Special outreach was conducted and the application was sent to
networking organizations in the theatre, dance and music communities.
On Wednesday, August 8, 2007 a workshop was held by staff at the Veterans
Memorial Building at which the grant guidelines and application were reviewed in
detail. Staff reviewed the application and answered questions of the attendees.
Also, staff reviewed the current list of possible performance venues in Culver City.
A total of sixteen applications were submitted by the deadline on Friday, September
10, 2007.
The panel review session was held on Tuesday, October 9, 2007 at City Hall from
9:30 am until 5:00 pm. Five distinguished panelists were joined by the two members
of the CAC Grants and Artist Services Subcommittee who attended as an additional
resource for questions and also as observers.
The 2008 Performing Arts Grant Review Panelists were:
1. Fred Fate - Director, Los Angeles City College Theatre Academy
2. Ben Hong – Assistant Principal Cellist, Los Angeles Philharmonic (Culver
City Resident)
3. Janice Pober - Senior Vice President, Corporate Social Responsibility,
Sony Pictures Entertainment
4. Jeannine Stehlin – Executive Director, Circus Theatricals (Community
Representative / Culver City Resident)
5. Lula Washington – Artistic Director/Founder, Lula Washington Dance
Theatre
DISCUSSION:
Staff reviewed each application and then prepared a binder of applications for each
panelist which was sent in advance of the Peer Review Panel meeting. The
panelists were also provided a score sheet for each applicant (see attached) and an
overview of Culver City’s Performing Arts Grant program. There were three scoring
criteria identified in the 2008 NOFA which are as follows:
1. Artistic excellence of proposed project (50 points);
2. Realistic budget and diversified funding base (25 points); and, City of Culver City, California
City Council Agenda Item Report
3. Outreach programs to the Culver City community (25 points).
Staff opened the review panel discussion by providing a brief overview of the grant
program’s history, guideline changes from the previous year, and discussion of the
three review criteria listed above.
After the overview, each application was reviewed with its corresponding
supplemental material in alphabetical order. Staff provided updated information and
then the panelists rotated in leading the discussion on the applications. Each
panelist had the opportunity to ask questions and then offer comments to the group.
This was followed by each panelist providing scores in each of the three categories
resulting in an overall average score for that applicant. The CAC subcommittee and
staff did not provide scores. In one instance, as noted below, Ms. Janice Pober
recused herself from providing scores because she interacts with an applicant and
wanted to avoid the perception of a conflict of interest. In this instance, the score
listed is an average of four panelists’ scores rather than five.
Upon completing review of the individual applications, the sixteen qualifying
applicants were ranked from highest to lowest; average total scores for all sixteen
ranged from 95.2 to 49.4. The panel felt that those applicants with average scores
of 90 and above should receive 100% of the funding requested. In one instance,
noted below, the panel and subcommittee expressed strong support for a proposal
and recommended a grant which would allow the organization to present two
performances instead of only one performance. Applicants with scores below 90
received a portion of the funding requested and the amount recommended is based
in part on their prior year funding history as well as their ability to present their
performances with reduced funding.
The panel’s recommendation was reviewed by the CAC subcommittee. The total
amount recommended for award is $57,750. The review panel and CAC
subcommittee were satisfied with the scoring and recommended grant
allocations for this year’s applicants. In addition, they recommended that the
unallocated funds of $7,250 be applied towards marketing the productions of the
grant recipients. A pocket calendar as well as additional materials to market
performances in a series would be created; and any remaining funds would be
carried over for the 2009 Performing Arts Grants Program.
A brief overview of the sixteen applicants (ranked from highest to lowest) is included
on the following pages with summary comments as provided by the panelists.
City of Culver City, California
City Council Agenda Item Report
We Tell Stories
Proposed Project: Performances that complement the Culver City Summer
Reading Program as well as Black History Month, Children's
Book Week, Fiesta La Ballona, Halloween and the Holidays
Performance Venue: Culver City Julian Dixon Library
Proposed Dates: February 2, 9, or 23, 2008
May 14, or 15, 2008
June 25, 2008
July 2, 9, 16, 23, and 30, 2008
August 6, 13, 20, and 27, 2008
October 31, 2008 or November 1, 2008
December 6, 2008
Panel Score: 95.2
Grant Request $8,000 Recommended Award $8,000
The panel was enthusiastic about the proposal to present performances in
connection with the existing programs at the Culver City Julian Dixon Library. They
felt that the organization was true to its mission and had been successful in serving
the community by adapting and presenting stories for children that were interactive
and consistently received positive feedback. They noted that the company enjoyed a
high profile and were impressed that the company had a full-time artistic director.
Culver City High School Academy of Visual and Performing Arts
Proposed Project: Java Drama 14 – a multi-media event featuring one acts,
scenes, monologues, films, videos, music, art, and poetry
Performance Venue: Ivy Substation
Proposed Dates: May 21-24, 2008
Panel Score: 93.25 (This average does not include scores from Ms. Pober)
Grant Request $5,000 Recommended Award $5,000
Panelists were positive about the assertive programming from AVPA and expressed
support for the proposal of providing multiple outlets for the varied talents of the City of Culver City, California
City Council Agenda Item Report
students. Panelists were aware of the reputation of AVPA and felt that it was
indicative of the City’s profile.
The Definiens Project
Proposed Project: The Culver City Crescent concert series featuring
contemporary chamber music
Performance Venue: Culver Hotel
Proposed Dates: January 13, 2008
February 10, 2008
March 9, 2008
April 13, 2008
May 18, 2008
June 8, 2008
Panel Score: 92.4
Grant Request $6,000 Recommended Award $6,000
The panel was impressed by the proposal and the accompanying CD. It was noted
that the organization was unique and had a clear artistic vision that included
educating the public about chamber music and new music. There was enthusiasm
for the outreach efforts and support for the interactive nature of the performance
which would change the experience for the audience and enable patrons to
understand the music. There was a suggestion that the organization explore the
possibility of working with dance companies in the future for mutual benefit.
Collage Dance Theatre
Proposed Project: Gallery Piece - a live performance installation
Performance Venue: Bandini Art Gallery
Proposed Dates: March 22, 2008
Panel Score: 92.2
Grant Request $4,000 Recommended Award $4,000
The vision of the organization and the proposed program were exciting to the panel.
They were interested in the concept of a performance in an art gallery where City of Culver City, California
City Council Agenda Item Report
dancers would create movement to allow visitors to experience the space in a
different way. Panelists agreed that it showed artistic courage to take on such a
challenge. The budget and funding sources were impressive and the fact that the
organization’s board members were required to “give or get”. The panel suggested
that the outreach be broadened to attract architects, designers and performers.
Vox Femina Los Angeles
Proposed Project: All Aboard! Fiesta Bound! celebrating VFLA’s upcoming tour
to Mexico, featuring American folk songs, signature pieces, and
world music
Performance Venue: Culver City Presbyterian Church
Proposed Dates: May 17, 2008
Panel Score: 90.8
Grant Request $4,350 Recommended Award $4,350
Vox Femina Los Angeles is based in Culver City and the panel was enthusiastic
about the mission of the organization and the dynamic talent of its performers.
Panelists observed that this was an organization that aspires to achieve long-term
goals and that they appear to have the resources to accomplish that. The panel
applauded the comprehensive development plan, including the board development
plan, and other long-term planning projects. The panel encouraged the company to
consider performing in a larger Culver City venue in the future.
Benita Bike’s DanceArt, Inc.
Proposed Project: The educational Double Take dance program
Performance Venue: Veterans Memorial Auditorium
Proposed Dates: February 24, 2008 and May 18, 2008
Panel Score: 90.2
Grant Request $1,700 Recommended Award $3,400
Panelists familiar with the dance company praised its artistic quality and reputation.
The proposal for Plan A was the most attractive to the panel since it would provide a
second viewing of one of the dances after a question and answer period. The City of Culver City, California
City Council Agenda Item Report
educational aspects of the performance could promote more understanding about
dance in general. The panel was interested in demonstrating its support for the
project by doubling the grant award so that two performances could be performed in
Culver City instead of one. Panelists also suggested that the dance company
examine its funding base and consider diversification in the future.
Culver City Chamber Orchestra
Proposed Project: The Passport to Europe concert featuring a segment of the
Just for Kids Youth Symphony
Performance Venue: Kirk Douglas Theatre
Proposed Dates: August 3, 2008
Panel Score: 88
Grant Request $5,000 Recommended Award $4,000
The panel was interested in the proposal to present a performance at the Kirk
Douglas Theatre and agreed that it was an excellent opportunity for children to
perform at a professional venue. Panelists respected the organization’s commitment
to the community with its emphasis on education. The panel felt that the Just for
Kids Youth Symphony is a very specific program for children and that mixing
professionals with students would be very valuable. Panelists encouraged the
orchestra to reach out to children to attend the performance and suggested that the
program may provide an opportunity for the orchestra to obtain school contracts.
Westchester Symphony Society (Culver City Symphony Orchestra)
Proposed Project: Annual concert, On Our Way Up, featuring winners of the
Parness Young Artists Concerto Competition
Performance Venue: Veterans Memorial Auditorium
Proposed Dates: March 29, 2008
Panel Score: 88
Grant Request $10,000 Recommended Award $5,500
Panelists remarked on the orchestra’s reputation in the community and on the good
artistic quality of the CD. They felt that it is important to have a community orchestra City of Culver City, California
City Council Agenda Item Report
that offers free performances. The panel felt that the proposed program is important
to the music education system since it is a vehicle for encouraging children to study
classical music and learn an instrument. The panel encouraged promoting the
concert through the Culver City Schools. Also, it was recommended that the
orchestra initiate strategic planning and review its need for an Executive Director.
The orchestra will receive a fee waiver of $3,150 for the use of Veterans Memorial
Auditorium as per a prior written agreement with the City Council.
WCB Arts Foundation Inc.
Proposed Project: Adventure in Wonderland and On the Green; educational,
family-friendly, contemporary dance productions, featuring
circus clowns, stiltwalkers, and live music with the Bob
Applebaum Acoustic Ensemble
Performance Venue: Culver City Park – Basketball Court
Proposed Dates: October 17-19, 2008
Panel Score: 83
Grant Request $5,000 Recommended Award $4,000
Panelists were not aware of this company prior to reviewing the proposal however
they were enthusiastic about the project and favorably regarded the performance on
DVD. They appreciated the fun that the group generated and believed that the
company could effectively present dance in the park. Panelists remarked on the
company’s corporate funding as well as its Cultural Affairs Department funding from
the City of Los Angeles as signs of confidence in the company.
Culver City Public Theatre, Inc.
Proposed Project: The 2008 Summer Season, featuring classical theatrical
works, as well as the Children’s Popcorn Theatre program
Performance Venue: Carlson Park
Proposed Dates: Two performances every Saturday and Sunday
July 19, 20, 26, and 27, 2008
August 2, 3, 9, 10, 16, 17, 23, and 24, 2008
Panel Score: 82
City of Culver City, California
City Council Agenda Item Report
Grant Request $10,000 Recommended Award $5,000
This company has established itself in Culver City and audiences look forward to the
summer productions. The Panel respected the efforts of this community theatre and
recognized the benefits of presenting performances in Carlson Park. Panelists were
familiar with the productions and remarked on the enjoyable ambiance of the events
with families bringing folding chairs and blankets. Panelists remarked on the
changes that the organization has undergone over the years and recommended that
more effort be made on developing an artistic vision for the company.
L.A. Contemporary Dance Company
Proposed Project: An interactive dance and music performance that is part of
the New Spaces, New Faces project- an initiative to perform
dance in unconventional venues
Performance Venue: Culver City High School Gymnasium
Proposed Dates: June 23-29, 2008
Panel Score: 80.2
Grant Request $7,000 Recommended Award $3,500
The panel felt that this was a promising young company and noted that they had
already performed at the Ford Amphitheatre. Panelists were excited by the project
and believed in the capability of the company although the DVD did not feature a hip
hop or jazz performance. The budget was commended especially for its footnotes of
additional information. Panelists remarked on the company’s interest in developing
a broader relationship with the City and recommended that the organization explore
the City’s current performing arts scene including the activities of AVPA.
Los Angeles Area Veterans’ Artists Alliance
Proposed Project: The Need to Know
April Fitzsimmons' solo show, sharing her story as a performer
and a veteran
Performance Venue: Kirk Douglas Theatre
Proposed Dates: August 2, 2008
Panel Score: 76 City of Culver City, California
City Council Agenda Item Report
Grant Request $2,500 Recommended Award $2,000
Panel members were excited by the concept of this one-woman performance and
interested in the subject matter. Panelists remarked that grant funding might provide
a foundation for the artist to obtain other grants. Questions arose regarding the size
of the theatre for this production since the piece seems to require a more intimate
space. Additionally, there was a recommendation to have the director or an acting
coach assist in the transition to the Kirk Douglas Theatre.
Los Angeles Doctors Symphony Orchestra
Proposed Project: The Annual Young Pianist Concerto Concert, featuring six
middle and high school age winners of the Robert Turner
Piano Concerto Competition
Performance Venue: Veterans Memorial Auditorium
Proposed Dates: March 9, 2008
Panel Score: 74.8
Grant Request $3,100 Recommended Award $2,000
Overall, panelists found this organization unique and remarked that the project
provided good community benefit. The young pianists are serious and the event is
important for the piano student community. Panelists recommended that the
organization explore more diversified funding sources for this project in the future.
Three Chairs Theatre Company
Proposed Project: Believe You Me
An original production examining familiar fairy tales by the
Brothers Grimm, Aesop, and traditional Korean and
Japanese works
Performance Venue: Black Box Theatre at West Los Angeles College
Proposed Dates: February 7, 8, 9, 14, 15, and 16, 2008
Panel Score: 66.8
Grant Request $3,000 Recommended Award $1,000 City of Culver City, California
City Council Agenda Item Report
The panel noted that this was an emerging, young company that had already made
connections in the Culver City community and specifically with AVPA. Panelists felt
that West LA College was a good venue for this group and this project. The panel
recommended that the company explore opportunities to involve seasoned
professionals in its work so that they may act as mentors for the young artists.
NACUSA-LA
Proposed Project: A series of five concerts, presenting professional singers and
instrumentalists performing art songs and chamber music by
composers from Southern California
Performance Venue: Culver City Presbyterian Church
Culver City Senior Center
Proposed Dates: April 30, 2008
June 21, 2008
September 24, and 27, 2008
December 7, 2008
Panel Score: 56.2
Grant Request $4,000 Recommended Award $0
The panel appreciated the project’s concept but was not favorably impressed by the
CD. It was noted that the two reviews submitted were written by a composer
included on the CD and the panel would have preferred to see an independent third
party review. After careful examination and comparison, the panel recommended
against funding the organization this year in favor of selecting other music proposals
which would provide higher quality performances and more impact in the community.
Nom de Guerre Theatre Guild
Proposed Project: Halloween Theatre Festival - Adaptations of classic literature
in the thriller genre, produced an evening of one-act plays
Performance Venue: Not Set
Proposed Dates: September 26-November 2, 2008
Panel Score: 49.4
City of Culver City, California
City Council Agenda Item Report
Grant Request $6,500 Recommended Award $0
The panel was interested in the project but noted that a venue had not been set in
advance. The submitted review and videotape were seven years old and that raised
questions about the quality of the current company. The project seemed large and
the budget and fundraising plan seemed unrealistic to the panel. The panel declined
to recommend funding for this project.
* * *
At the regularly scheduled meeting of the Cultural Affairs Commission on November
13, 2007, the award recommendations as outlined above were approved 5-0.
FISCAL ANALYSIS:
The total amount recommended for the 2008 Performing Arts Grant awards is
$57,750. The unallocated funds of $7,250 would be used to market the
performances of the grant recipients with the remainder carried over into FY 2008-
09. These funds come from the combination of Art Fund monies as allocated
pursuant to Culver City’s Municipal Code and a contribution from Sony Pictures
Entertainment. Sufficient funds are available in CIP Project 614 – Performing
Arts Grants to fund this recommendation.
ATTACHMENTS:
Attachment 1 – Overview of 2008 Performing Arts Grant Requests
Attachment 2 – 2008 NOFA, Score Sheet and Performing Arts Grant Applications
MOTION:
That the City Council:
Allocate funds for the 2008 Performing Arts Grant program as recommended by
the Cultural Affairs Commission and as outlined above in the staff report.