Partnership pitches to operate Garden Theatre; proponents emphasize community and technical capacity

A partnership of three proponents offered to operate Winter Garden's Garden Theatre during the public-comment period, saying they can blend for-profit, nonprofit and technical production capabilities.

Alan Brune, speaking for a team that includes Fernando Varela (Victory Productions) and Gigi Cook (bungalow scenic), said the group is “very passionate about this space” and can manage a combined community and technical production model. Brune referenced historical local involvement with the theater and noted the group's complement of production, nonprofit and business experience.

The proposal was presented after the city introduced a contract award to replace an aging rooftop AC unit at the Garden Theatre; staff said the RTU replacement is part of a multiyear plan to replace aging units and recommended awarding the contract to SWIN Services. Brune said the group is interested in operating the theater and offered to share more information with staff. The commission did not take a formal action on the operator pitch during the meeting; staff and the proponents were encouraged to exchange contact information for follow-up discussions.

Brune said, "We believe that we can be, a strong partner and a good operating partner for the city with the city for the Garden Theatre." The commission declined to act on an operator selection at this meeting and directed staff to continue technical work and procurement actions already approved.