By Bill Miranda
Santa Clarita City Mayor
If you have strolled down Main Street in Old Town Newhall, you have likely encountered delicious cuisine, tasty libations and quaint shops. Another remarkable location along the lively street is the City of Santa Clarita’s multi-use arts center, The MAIN. The MAIN is home to live music, original theatre productions, visual art, artist workshops and more for both Santa Clarita residents and visitors alike. Although the physical theatre seats remained empty for a large part of 2020, I was amazed to see the emergence of unique and entertaining shows in an online format. However, for me, nothing beats enjoying the arts in person, so I am ecstatic that The MAIN has officially reopened for live audiences.
Safely welcoming back residents and visitors adds to the list of fun summer activities available in Santa Clarita. Whether you are an experienced artist, excited observer or simply tagging along with friends, you are sure to have a great time at The MAIN. I encourage each of you to visit one of their many upcoming live events to see for yourself. Those with a curiosity or interest in visual art should attend the upcoming “Don’t…Spray It” art reception on Thursday, August 19, at 7:00 p.m. At the reception, you will see graffiti art celebrating community while enjoying music and refreshments. Those who love magic should venture to The MAIN on August 20, at 8:00 p.m. for “Enchanted: An Evening of Magic.” The ticketed event will be an intimate and unforgettable night of magic tricks, comedy and hypnotism performed by three talented magicians!
The upcoming art reception and magic event are just a glimpse of the wonderful arts opportunities presented by The MAIN. Perhaps one of the most anticipated shows is the free, community-favorite “10 by 10” Variety Night, which will return to its traditional in-person format on Thursday, September 2. Ten performers will take the stage for ten minutes each, performing acts ranging from magic to storytelling, comedy and others. As a preview, the upcoming show will feature acts such as three-time MOTH story winner and podcast host Christine Blackburn, stand-up comedian and former America’s Got Talent contestant Marty Ross and world-class juggler Ivan Pecel. No two shows are alike, but if you would like to get a better idea of what you are in for, visit the City of Santa Clarita’s YouTube channel to watch previous events.
Thank you to the artists who make The MAIN an electric and entertaining arts venue in Santa Clarita. Plan to see a show, visit an art gallery or participate in an upcoming workshop to show your support for the outstanding work being produced. I am thrilled to invite each of you back to The MAIN to immerse yourselves in a variety of art experiences. Explore AtTheMAIN.org to learn more about the venue, upcoming events and calls for submissions.
