Spokane Symphony and Fox Theater become one organization

Dec 8, 2010

For Immediate Release

Contact: Annie Matlow AT 464-7071

SPOKANE - The Boards of Trustees of the Spokane Symphony and Fox Theater Spokane, following a unanimous vote of both boards, announce the integration of the two organizations beginning Jan. 1, 2011.

“In this reset economy, many non-profit organizations are working to refine their strategic visions to ensure sustainability well into the future. They’re seeking ways to succeed and exploring new models to get there. This new relationship positions us for future success. We are better together,” said Peter Moye, past president of Fox Theater Spokane board and president-elect of the Spokane Symphony board.

The Spokane Symphony and Fox Theater have operated for almost 10 years as two independent regional non-profit organizations with a shared commitment to performing arts. They now combine operations to create a springboard for future success. For more than a year, the boards have been meeting together working on this integration plan.

“This merger streamlines and simplifies operations and more closely aligns our greatest assets – a renowned concert hall with a world-class symphony. We are now poised to create a unified vision for growth,” said Brenda Nienhouse, who has served as executive director of both organizations since June 2005.

“We believe that together this new organization will deliver unrivaled experiences and strengthen its impact as a vital cultural and educational catalyst to fuel community and economic growth in this region,” Nienhouse said.

The announcement was made to a group of Spokane Symphony and Fox Theater donors, board members and supporters in the lobby of Martin Woldson Theater at The Fox Thursday afternoon as they celebrated the unified future with the theme, “Better Together.”