Smith Center for the Arts

WHEREAS, March 27th marks the 60th anniversary of World Theatre Day, a celebration that promotes theatre in all its forms across the world; and

WHEREAS, every culture on earth engages in storytelling, the root of theatre, to make sense of experiences, share values, and challenge or reinforce cultural norms; and

WHEREAS, theatre encompasses a wide variety of genres, from musical theatre to performance art, from puppetry to pantomime and millions of people engage in theatre as both amateurs and professionals through costuming, performing, designing, writing, or dedicating themselves to the dozens of other pursuits that come together to create a show; and

WHEREAS, in 2021, theatre can help us make sense of our world while we face a global pandemic, struggle for racial justice, and face threats to our planet and our democratic institutions. Theatre provides a shared experience that helps us express fear and horror, hopes and dreams; and

WHEREAS, the Smith has hosted dramatic performances throughout its 126-year-old history beginning with a dramatic portrayal of “The Count of Monte Cristo” performed by James O’Neil, father of the great American playwright, Eugene O’Neil as its first performance in 1894, AND continuing through recent productions including “The Crucible,” “Charlotte’s Web,” and Geneva Theatre Guild’s “Spamalot;” and

WHEREAS, as the cultural anchor of downtown Geneva, The Smith plays an important role in the economic growth of the city, attracting crowds to events year-round, enlivening downtown streets, and providing customers for downtown’s shops and restaurants; and

WHEREAS, this historic landmark reminds us of the generations of generous Genevans who have preserved this remarkable asset so that it can continue to host the shows that delight, inform, educate and entertain to this day.

NOW, THEREFORE, in commemoration of World Theatre Day, the City of Geneva recognizes the contribution the Smith Opera House has made to the cultural and community life of our city and encourages our citizens to celebrate and engage with this extraordinary resource.