Arts Foundation Takes Over High Street Arts Center

The Moorpark Foundation for the Arts has taken the final steps to assume operating control of the from the City of Moorpark.

At a special board meeting in June, an operating agreement with the city was approved, giving the foundation the responsibility for the future of the 220-seater arts center.

“This is a huge step for our relatively new organization, “said Louie Valdez, president of the foundation.

Established in 2009, the foundation was founded to support the arts in Moorpark, particularly the .

The foundation became independent of the city in 2011 and has gradually built support within the community.

“To be successful, we will have to earn even greater support and participation in the community,” said Valdez.

Ken Rayzor will continue as general manager for the center. Under Rayzor’s direction, the arts center has nearly doubled attendance and box office revenues in the past two seasons, the foundation said. 

“Ken is the reason the High Street Arts Center has been successful and the board has total confidence in his ability to continue to build on past success,” said executive director Hugh Riley.

Said Rayzor, “I am excited about the future here at the High Street Arts Center and I appreciate the opportunity to help keep it going."

Rayzor gave a preview of the 2012-13 season ahead beginning with the “Honk Jr.,” a production of the summer musical theater youth camp. 

"Rex Bravo, the Whistling Cowboy," "Seussical, the Musical," "Aida," "Inherit the Wind," and "The Producers" will also be coming to the High Street Arts Center soon.

The foundation’s anuual fundraising event will be on Thursday, September 6 at Walnut Grove Ranch. Supporters of the arts can join the foundation by visiting www.moorparkarts.org.