Last week I had my first opportunity to visit The Center for Visual and Performing Arts in Munster for several reasons - a conference, the Salon Show and the musical "Women on the Verge of a Nervous Breakdown."

Having never been to The Center before, I was eager to see what it had to offer. I was pleasantly surprised by not only the exterior of the building and the grounds, but also by the beautiful interior.

I was there to attend the Creating Vibrant Communities through the Arts conference for work, which turned out to be very inspiring and thought-provoking. We met in various rooms over the course of the two-day conference, each room both modern and well-appointed. My fellow conference attendees and I were treated to lovely snacks and meals during the course of our time there.

We also had the opportunity to attend a reception and take in the amazing artwork presented at the 71st Annual Salon Show. I enjoyed the variety of artwork and was very impressed with the offerings of two of my fellow Jasper County residents, Mary Ann Van Soest and Doris Myers. As I have limited artistic talent (unless of course you consider words to be art), I am always impressed at what artists can create in so many different mediums and the emotions that such artwork can evoke in its viewers.

On the final day of the conference, we were invited to experience "Women on the Verge of a Nervous Breakdown," the latest production at Theatre at the Center, also located in The Center for Visual and Performing Arts. Having never been to a performance there, I was excited to be able to see the show that night.

The theatre is cozy, seating only 416 patrons, making you feel like you are part of the show. I was impressed with the talent of the actors and actresses. The second act, in particular, was terrific, as it answered all questions caused by the first act. It was definitely a humorous and witty show.

I'm looking forward to attending another conference there next week, and I also hope to get back soon to see one of Theatre at the Center's upcoming shows. Maybe I'll see you there!

Contributing Editor: Amy Van Soest
Former communications coordinator with the South Shore CVA.