San Gabriel Valley Symphony partners with city for San Gabriel Mission Playhouse residency

San Gabriel is set to enhance its cultural landscape following the City Council's approval of a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Arts Bridging the Gap (ABG) on behalf of the San Gabriel Valley Symphony (SGVS) for the use of the San Gabriel Mission Playhouse. This partnership aims to establish a residency for the newly formed professional orchestra, marking a significant step towards making San Gabriel a hub for world-class music.

During the July 15, 2025, City Council meeting, Community Services Director Perez presented the proposal, highlighting the potential benefits of the partnership. The SGVS, in collaboration with ABG, plans to host a series of concerts, including a Mid Autumn Festival concert in October 2025 and a Lunar New Year concert in January 2026, both at the Mission Playhouse. The inaugural concert is scheduled for August at Barnes Park in Monterey Park, serving as a memorial for the victims of the Lunar New Year tragedy in 2023.

The council's approval includes a phased approach to the partnership, where SGVS will initially cover standard rental costs associated with the Playhouse, while certain fees, such as administration and equipment usage, will be waived. This arrangement is designed to support the orchestra's first season, with the expectation that successful concerts will lead to renegotiated terms for future events, potentially including reduced rental fees and revenue sharing.

While there is no immediate fiscal impact from the agreement, the council acknowledged the potential for economic benefits as concert attendees are likely to patronize local businesses. The city staff recommended the MOU's approval, allowing the city manager to finalize the agreement pending legal review.

The council's decision reflects a commitment to fostering the arts in San Gabriel, with the hope that this partnership will not only elevate the city's cultural offerings but also attract diverse audiences to the Mission Playhouse.