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One on One:
Dennis Assaf
by Stacey Paretti Rase
In 1978, Dennis Assaf founded the Jefferson Performing Arts Society on the southshore with the dream of bringing cultural programs to his community and building a major performing arts venue. JPAS is now a huge success and will break ground on a $28 million theatre this month. Assaf is expanding his talents to the northshore with Opus!—a cultural venture with a similar mission. Its inaugural season is well underway. Performances are being held in northshore school auditoriums, but Assaf is busily garnering support to build a major theatre in the near future.
What led you to pursue building a major performing arts venue on the northshore?
Members of the northshore community invited me to explore ways to get such a facility built here. When they discovered I was moving here and wanted to bring productions with me, the next logical step was to use these shows as a means to rally support for a new arts center.
What is your vision for such a venue?
Ideally, it should be large enough to accommodate touring shows of any genre—Broadway, opera, ballet. If it’s too small, the touring companies won’t come. I would prefer one facility with two stages: an 1800-seat main stage and a 600-seat community space. This will boost economic development and act as a catalyst for the creation of more performing arts companies. It would also serve as an educational facility.
What types of performances do you envision bringing to such a theatre?
There is opportunity for much diversity. We produce it all, from opera to Japanese theatre; from dance to improv comedy; from symphonic and choral concerts to rock and roll; from drama to Broadway.
How important will it be for Opus! to gain the attention of elected officials and the business community?
Unless I win the Powerball and can afford it myself, it is essential they are involved. Bringing the state in is the only way to go, as I don’t see local government doing it alone. One thing we must do is have strong attendance at shows, which demonstrates the support local leaders will need to pursue funding.
It took nearly 30 years to see the JPAS dream realized. Will it take that long here?
I don’t think so. I sense a stronger hunger for the arts on the northshore. When residents realize they won’t have to travel so far and can enjoy such performances in their own community, political leaders will be energized sooner. I know I don’t have another 29 years left in me, so I hope it will happen quickly!
Remaining Opus! season offerings include “The Buddy Holly Story,” “Yeah, Yeah, Yeah” and “The Will Rogers Follies.” Call (504) 885-2000 for ticket and venue information.
