Arts Council of Greater Kalamazoo - 2025 Community Arts Awards

Updated about 2 hours ago

The Arts Council of Greater Kalamazoo shines a spotlight on the exceptional artistic and cultural contributions made by individuals and organizations in the region. Hosted by Kristen Chesak, the event recognizes the dedication and talent of awardees such as Farmers Alley Theatre and Prairie Ronde Artist Residency, among others. The ceremony features heartfelt speeches and honors diverse artistic disciplines, highlighting the transformative power of art in building community and enriching lives in Kalamazoo.

Chapters

Opening Remarks and Welcome (00:05:34)
Kristen Chesak, Executive Director of the Arts Council of Greater Kalamazoo, opens the ceremony, expressing pride in the arts community and inviting past award recipients to be recognized.

Kristen Chesak welcomes everyone to the Community Arts Awards, expressing immense pride in the thriving arts culture in Kalamazoo. She invites any previous Community Medal of Arts Award recipients to stand and be acknowledged for their contributions.
Recognition of Past Award Recipients (00:06:01)
Previous award recipients, including those who received volunteer, young artist, Epic, business, and leadership awards, are invited to stand and be recognized for their contributions.

As part of the opening ceremony, Kristen Jessica calls for a round of applause for those who have previously received various awards, including the distinguished volunteer award, young artist award, Epic award, business award, and Yale Leadership Award.
Introduction of New Board Members (00:06:50)
Newly indoctrinated presidents and board members for the Arts Council and Kalamazoo Cultural Center are introduced and welcomed.

Kristen Jessica warmly welcomes the newly indoctrinated presidents and board members, including Simon Fon, the new president of the Arts Council of Greater Kalamazoo, and Cody Lynn Perch, president of the Kalamazoo Cultural Center.
Recognition of Retiring Board Members (00:07:22)
Retiring board members from the Kalamazoo Cultural Center and Arts Council are thanked for their invaluable service, especially during the pandemic.

The ceremony acknowledges the dedicated service of retiring board members, including Bob Miller, Candy Grady, Becky Hartzel, and Montana Major, for their invaluable contributions, especially during the challenges of the pandemic.
Presentation of Epic Award to Farmer's Alley Theater (00:09:49)
Farmers Alley Theater receives an Epic Award for its high artistic quality and contributions to community life, with a focus on diverse storytelling and dialogue.

Terry Williams and Alice Kemerling present the Epic Award to Farmers Alley Theater for their transformative impact on the region's performing arts landscape, known for Broadway-quality productions and fostering dialogue on important issues. The founders, Jeremy Koch and Rob Weiner, express gratitude to the Arts Council and acknowledge their partners and supporters.
Presentation of Epic Award to Prairie Ronde Artist Residency (00:17:42)
Prairie Ronde Artist Residency is honored for enriching cultural life and engaging local residents through creative programs and exhibitions.

Elita De Young and Kim Mayer present the Epic Award to Prairie Ronde Artist Residency for its role in infusing creativity into daily life and turning Vicksburg into a hub of cultural vitality. Co-founder Francis Lee accepts the award, emphasizing the residency's growth and its contributions to the local and artistic community.
Business Arts Award to Zang Financial (00:30:37)
Zhang Financial receives the Business Arts Award for exemplary partnerships with artists and arts organizations, enriching cultural life in the community.

Tracy Lowy and Joan Harrington present the Business Arts Award to Charles and Chen Zhang of Zhang Financial for their leadership and commitment to supporting the arts. Chen Zhang stresses the importance of art in creating a vibrant community and encourages businesses to invest in the arts to attract talent and enhance the quality of life.
Gratitude to Mentors and Family (00:57:04)
A heartfelt speech acknowledging the support from mentors, teachers, and family that led to receiving an award, highlighting the influence of Dr. Barry Ross and Ms. Audrey Lipsey.

The speaker expresses deep gratitude to mentors, teachers, and family members who have supported them, leading to the receipt of an award. They especially thank Dr. Barry Ross, a steadfast mentor since childhood, and Ms. Audrey Lipsey, an inspiring primary teacher. These individuals have played crucial roles in nurturing the speaker's musical journey, providing guidance, opportunities, and encouragement. The speaker emphasizes the impact of listening to Dr. Ross's performances and Ms. Audrey's tireless efforts in their development.
Felix Bahrou's Award Recognition (01:00:00)
Felix Baru, a promising young performer from Kalamazoo, is recognized for his achievements in theater, earning a scholarship and praise for his versatility and charisma.

Felix Bahrou, a senior at Boy Norwalk's High School, is celebrated as a promising young performer in Kalamazoo. Known for his versatility, charisma, and depth in roles such as those in 'Urinetown,' 'Puffs,' and 'Grease,' Felix brings humor and professionalism to every performance. Beyond the stage, he leads with kindness and serves his school community, mentoring peers and building connections through creativity. Felix is awarded a scholarship to assist with his future educational plans, marking his significant contributions to the arts.
Felix's Journey in Theater (01:01:10)
Felix Bahrou shares his journey from a reluctant audition in Ohio to finding his passion for theater in Kalamazoo, expressing gratitude for the supportive theater community.

Felix Bahrou recounts his journey into theater, which began four years ago in Columbus, Ohio, when his choir teacher convinced him to audition for a spring show. He played Chad in 'High School Musical Junior' and loved it. However, his family moved to Kalamazoo, where he initially felt unhappy. His dad encouraged him to attend a workshop for 'Puffs,' sparking his love for theater in Kalamazoo. Felix thanks the supportive theater community, directors, and castmates who have mentored him and helped him grow as an actor and person.
Celebrating the Impact of Fran White (01:17:00)
Fran White is honored for her extraordinary ability to capture beauty through photography, with a significant impact on the Kalamazoo community.

Fran White is recognized with the Community Medal of Arts for her significant contributions through photography. Known for her ability to see beauty in everyday moments, Fran's work captures local musicians, events, nature, and architecture, uncovering extraordinary beauty often overlooked. Her photography has left a lasting impact on the community, and she is celebrated for her unique artistic vision. Fran expresses gratitude to her family and the Kalamazoo community for supporting her passion for art.
Al Harris's Dedication to Arts Education (01:20:00)
Al Harris is recognized for his lifelong commitment to teaching art and inspiring students, receiving the Community Medal of Arts for his impactful work.

Al Harris is celebrated for his dedication to arts education, teaching art to young students at the Kalamazoo Institute of Arts and other organizations. His innovative teaching methods have inspired countless students, many of whom have pursued successful art careers. Al's commitment to nurturing artistic talent and supporting the community through volunteer work is honored with the Community Medal of Arts. He reflects on the influence of his mentors and the joy of sharing his passion for art with others.
Robin Knott's Legacy in Theater Education (01:31:00)
Robin Knott is awarded for his transformative work in theater education, inspiring generations through storytelling and the arts.

Robin Knott receives the Community Medal of Arts for his transformative contributions to theater education. As the founder of the Performing Arts Company at Gull Lake Community Schools, Robin has inspired generations of students through theater and storytelling, fostering empathy, imagination, and joy. His leadership has created a model program for arts education and community engagement. Robin's work has shaped countless students, artists, and audiences, instilling a love for the arts and a deep sense of community.
Bradley Wong's Contribution to Music and Arts (01:38:00)
Bradley Wong is honored for his contributions to music and arts leadership in Kalamazoo, serving as a clarinetist, educator, and arts director.

Bradley Wong is recognized with the Community Medal of Arts for his outstanding contributions to music and arts leadership in Kalamazoo. As a world-class clarinetist, educator, and arts leader, Bradley has served Western Michigan University and Fontana Chamber Arts, mentoring generations of musicians and elevating the region's cultural life. Known for his artistry, humility, and dedication, Bradley's work demonstrates how music and the arts build bridges across communities and generations. He expresses gratitude to his family, colleagues, and the Kalamazoo community for their support.