Mesquite Public Arts Commission backs veterans play, forms small steering committee

The Mesquite Public Arts Commission voted Feb. 10 to support a community theater production about three Vietnam veterans and their spouses and to form a small committee to help present and promote the show.

Commissioner Mitzi Bender introduced the project, saying she had been contacted by a playwright-producer whose work had been staged in the Las Vegas area and that the piece "has the capability of closing a chapter, I think." Bender told commissioners she has "a budget that I can show, what we need is fundraising. I know that we don't do fundraising, but I'm hoping to be steered in the right direction, our committee." She said the playwright would likely direct and that bringing him to Mesquite would be a major expense.

The commission approved a motion that "MPAC support this project and that, we help spearhead a committee to help Mitzi along." The motion was seconded and passed by voice vote. Commissioners volunteered to serve; the commission noted that, as a public body, committee membership must follow open-meeting limits (no more than three commissioners on an ad-hoc committee).

Bender described the planned production schedule: auditions in March, rehearsals beginning in mid-August and a run in October consisting of six performances over two weekends, with additional shows possible if ticket demand warrants. She said the production would use local performers and technical staff through the Mesquite Community Theater and that organizers hope to partner with local veterans groups and mental-health providers.

Commissioners suggested community outreach steps and contacts. Commissioner George Gault recommended consulting Al Littman and Steve Reynolds — both identified as contacts with local veterans organizations — to help with marketing and veteran engagement. Commissioners agreed the playwright should meet with local veteran representatives during planning.

The commission directed the new committee to gather details — including a cost breakdown and potential mental-health partners — and return to MPAC with recommendations before any financial commitment by the commission.

Votes at a glance: The commission approved the consent agenda (Feb. 10 agenda and Jan. 13 minutes) by voice vote at the start of the meeting. Later the commission approved the motion to support the veterans play and to form a steering committee. No votes were recorded against either motion.

The committee will report back to MPAC with a budget and partnership proposals; if MPAC needs to allocate funds or take further action, that will be placed on a future agenda.