Blumenthal Performing Arts Announces Center Stage Honorees

Blumenthal Performing Arts Announces Center Stage Honorees

Charlotte, NC – Blumenthal Performing Arts awarded five Center Stage Awards to community leaders during its annual meeting Nov. 13 in Booth Playhouse.  Outgoing Board Chair, Dorlis Flur, presented the awards.

Dennis and Clare McConaughy

In 2009 when Dennis retired from Kimberly-Clark, the McConaughay’s wanted to find a way to continue being productive and give something back to the community. As subscribers to the Broadway Lights series, they agreed that becoming volunteers at the Blumenthal would be very enjoyable as well as give them the opportunity for community service. Since that time, they have worked almost 2000 hours and are virtually always ready and willing to help when needed. Dennis and Clare McConaughy received Center Stage Awards for their commitment and dedication to Blumenthal Performing Arts.

 

Mike Collins

Charlotte is lucky, and Blumenthal is grateful, to have a journalist and radio host of the caliber of Mike Collins on air. Mike’s show on WFAE, “Charlotte Talks,” provides insightful discussion on the arts and a host of other topics important to the Queen City. Many of our Broadway artists comment after appearing on Mike’s show that he is the best interviewer they have met on their tours. His preparation and inside knowledge of the arts—Mike is an actor himself—allows him to bring the arts to life for his listeners. Mike Collins received a Center Stage Award for his contributions in elevating conversation about the arts in Charlotte.

 

Doug Booth and Deborah Harris

Friday November 20, 1992, almost exactly 20 years ago, Blumenthal Performing Arts was christened with a grand opening celebration much anticipated by the community. Years of work by a dedicated corps of community leaders and volunteers led by the Board President, Deborah Harris, and Vice President, Doug Booth, preceded the opening celebration. Deborah and Doug were instrumental in the planning, conception, fundraising and construction that brought this beautiful performing arts center to life. 


Doug served as Chairman of the Building Committee and oversaw contract negotiations and construction – construction alone spanned three years. The Booth Playhouse will forever memorialize his dedication through an endowed gift provided by Duke Energy in his honor. Doug Booth and Deborah Harris received Center Stage Awards for their tremendous contributions as leaders of the inaugural Blumenthal Board of Trustees.