Small city is developing a big-time arts scene

By JACK HOPKINS
SEATTLE POST-INTELLIGENCER REPORTER

Residents who have their hearts set on entertainment a notch or two above Hollywood fare aren't disappointed. The city has been in the midst of a performing arts boom.

"This town has really matured and developed and the need for improved cultural and arts activities has really been vocalized," says Josie Emmons, manager of the city's cultural programs.

The city has its own symphony orchestra, founded a year and a half ago and directed by Stewart Kershaw. The 65 musicians who play for it already have produced their first compact disc, and their last two concerts drew almost 1,200 people.

Symphony members regularly go into the Auburn schools to promote student interest in music.

"It is extraordinary for something like this to happen in a community this size," Emmons says. "There is a buzz in the community, an excitement that is really rare."

Auburn also is home to Evergreen City Ballet, which took a vacant storefront on Main Street in 1994 and turned it into a highly successful and respected home for ballet. It has more than 100 students and an annual budget topping $200,000.