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Temecula theater reports solid attendance; $350,000 audio upgrade flagged in CIP planning
Summary
The theater and Merc reported strong attendance for recent shows; staff said a full audio replacement would exceed $350,000 and must go through the capital-improvement (CIP) budgeting process.
Hilda Viet Nieto, senior recreation office specialist and ticket office lead for the Temecula theater, told commissioners the theater and the Merc hosted a mix of performances in the reporting period, including a local production of "9 to 5" with 11 performances and 1,913 patrons and other shows that contributed to more than 1,500 attendees across the Merc program.
Hilda described programming variety and volunteer oversight and provided capacity figures for the venues: she said the theater seating capacity is about 365 including box and balcony, and the Merc seats 48 with tables (up to 70 when furniture is removed). She explained box seats are reserved for city council (two seats each) and donors but become available for sale at noon on performance day if not used.
Director Russo said the theater has had past CIP work and that staff are assessing audio-system needs. "Last this past season as we were looking at a replacement of the audio system, it would be over $350,000," Russo said, adding that such an upgrade is a substantial CIP item that must compete with other capital priorities for funding. Russo noted the budget workshop schedule and encouraged commissioners to attend to observe CIP discussions.
Hilda and commissioners also discussed programming selection and returning companies; Hilda said selections are informed by conferences, clips and prior relationships and that programming for the next season is being set.
Why it matters: The theater is a recurring community arts asset with consistent attendance; a major audio-system upgrade would be a multi-hundred-thousand-dollar CIP request and requires council and budgetary review.
