From: Nick Hogan
Columbus
I just read Bob Stevens’ letter that says it’s time to "Dump the Crump" and had to speak up because I couldn’t disagree more.
If you take a look in other surrounding communities, many of them have restored their old theaters into viable entertainment venues for their community. Look no further than Franklin, Shelbyville or Greenfield to get a sense of this.
The Crump has the potential to be the best venue of all of these, should the community be willing to invest. The history at the Crump and the potential to bring in more entertainment options to Columbus should be appealing to the masses.
As someone who has been involved with many arts organizations over my roughly 15 years in Columbus, I know for a fact that there is still a need for performance spaces. Many community performance groups struggle to find available venues that meet their budget and audience needs. The Crump would be an excellent way to help those organizations grow.
When local performance groups aren’t performing there, imagine that you could show old movies, host concerts in all music genres, and I’m betting with the success of some of Columbus’ recent events you could attract some more famous talent to perform at a fully restored historic theater. You could use it as a wedding venue, too!
I recognize this isn’t a business plan, but I’m envisioning children, adults and families alike spending their entire day in downtown Columbus. Having coffee, grabbing a bite to eat, visiting some shops, and then taking in a performance at a remarkably restored performance space. Walking from building to building improves their health, and performing arts opportunities create humane, ethical and compassionate human beings.
When I see the Crump, I don’t see a dying old building. I see potential.
