San Gabriel Council Approves MOU for San Gabriel Valley Symphony at Mission Playhouse

The City Council of San Gabriel convened on July 15, 2025, to discuss 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. Community Services Director Perez presented the proposal, highlighting the potential establishment of a professional orchestra in the region.

The initiative began when Alex Dang approached the Mission Playhouse staff in November 2024, proposing a residency for the SGVS, which aims to elevate San Gabriel as a cultural hub for music. The partnership is expected to attract diverse audiences and enhance community engagement through various concerts, including a memorial concert in August 2025 and future events such as a mid-autumn festival concert and a Lunar New Year concert in 2026.

The council discussed the financial aspects of the partnership, with SGVS expected to cover standard rental costs for the Playhouse, including deposits and staffing. The initial agreement would require SGVS to pay a $2,000 deposit before events, with other fees settled post-performance based on revenue generated. City staff indicated that if the partnership proves successful, terms could be renegotiated to potentially include reduced fees or revenue sharing.

While there is no immediate fiscal impact from the proposed use, concerns were raised about the potential for revenue loss if concert attendance does not meet expectations. However, the council acknowledged the economic benefits of increased visitors to local businesses.

The meeting concluded with a recommendation for the council to approve the MOU, allowing the city manager to finalize the agreement pending legal review. The council also had the option to explore alternative arrangements or return the proposal to staff for further consideration. The discussions underscored the city's commitment to fostering arts and culture within the community.