Among the dignitaries at the presentation at BTV were Ernie Pomerleau, Mayor Weinberger, Director of Aviation Gene Richards and Flynn Executive Director Anna Marie Gewirtz. Flynn photo.
Vermont Business Magazine Looking like the curtain is just about to go up near the baggage claim, the Flynn Center has revealed a unique marketing partnership and new installation at Burlington International Airport to help raise awareness about the Flynn’s upcoming programs, events and arts education and community outreach. The installation, which will reach up to 1.3 million airport visitors each year, was created with generous support from the Pomerleau Foundation Donation and designed by Jeffrey Modereger from the University of Vermont Theatre Department.
“We at BTV are pleased to announce a new partnership between the Burlington International Airport and the Flynn Center for the Performing Arts,” said Gene Richards, Director of Aviation, Burlington International Airport. “This installation will make it possible for the 1.3 million annual travelers of BTV to experience all that the Flynn has to offer our great community, as well as enhance the Airport’s Vermont Reinforcing Vermont initiative, which highlights Vermont’s unique character.”
Located in the baggage claim area, the installation is built by Williston-based Edgeworks Display and modeled on the Flynn’s Main Stage theater. The space includes three screens with videos and stills featuring performances, upcoming events, and stories about the Flynn’s mission-based work. Since its founding as performing arts organization in 1981, the Flynn has worked to promote the enjoyment, understanding, and development of the performing arts in Vermont through diverse and engaging artistic experiences. Each season, the Flynn welcomes 38,000 students to its student matinees, 8,000 at no charge. The Flynn also partners with 86 social service agencies to provide $60,000 in discounted tickets each season. Every year, the organization’s work brings an estimated $13 million into the local economy.
“We are thrilled to have this unique platform to raise awareness among Vermont residents and visitors alike about all the performances, classes, workshops, camps, and community outreach happening as part of the Flynn. Programs like the Burlington Discover Jazz Festival are a major source of pride for this community and an attractive offering for those visiting Vermont, so we are excited by the possibilities of this new forum,” said Flynn Executive Director Anna Marie Gewirtz.
According to an Americans for the Arts study, anyone traveling from outside Chittenden County to an arts event in the Burlington area spends $53 a person at an arts event, which is more than double what those inside the county spend. These cultural tourists represent 39% of ticket buyers, and their additional spending includes restaurants, bars, hotels, parking, ground transportation, shopping, and more.
“The Flynn is at the heart of Vermont's performing arts programming and education. They allow collaboration between students, artists, and the community every day inspiring creative ideas for both young and old. Arts can touch a life in profound ways and what better way to help travelers, the community, and business than to embrace art as you enter the state of Vermont through the Burlington International Airport,” said Ernie Pomerleau of Pomerleau Real Estate.
This project was generously supported by the Pomerleau Family Foundation, with additional support from Edgeworks Display and Mood Media.
Source: BURLINGTON, VT — The Flynn Center