JACKSON, Miss. (WJTV) – Jackson arts leaders want more timely communication from Jackson leaders about the shutdown of Thalia Mara Hall.
In early August, the city was forced to close Thalia Mara Hall after “early microbial activity” was discovered following a recent malfunction with the HVAC controller in the facility.
Arts leaders said the shutdown left Jackson arts nonprofits in a late scramble for alternative spaces to fulfill long-planned performances that are seasonal staples in the community.
“The arts are at the center of the heart and soul of life in Mississippi,” said Mississippi Symphony Orchestra (MSO) President and Executive Director Jenny Mann. “Thalia Mara Hall is the main space for all of us in this area. Without the space, we can’t do what we do, and the city has not communicated with arts leaders at all. We really need them to be a partner with us.”
The arts leaders said the lack of a tentative timeframe for repairs have left them frustrated, and they believe they’re out of the loop.
Ballet Mississippi marks its 60th anniversary season this year, and The Nutcracker is its biggest production and annual showcase. Officials said the production now must be minimized to fit the smaller venue of Jackson Prep’s Fortenberry Theatre.
“That’s a tall order. It really creates a new vision and I’m wracking my brain right now,” Ballet Mississippi Executive Artistic Director David Keary said. “We’re all just disappointed. It’s frustrating. Things do happen. Parts wear out. But we do need better communication with the city.”
Mann praised community efforts in helping find alternate locations and hopes to announce within the week the new venues for MSO concerts in the season’s first half.
Jackson leaders said their committed to restoring Thalia Mara Hall, and they’re working to secure funding for the project. The city recently received $1.5 million from the state.
According to the City of Jackson, the major events at Thalia Mara Hall have been moved to the Mississippi Coliseum during the closure. The city plans to reopen Thalia Mara Hall when the issues have been alleviated. There is no current timeframe for the repairs.
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