“We have over 200 volunteers, but
we’re always on the lookout for more,”
said Papke.
The volunteers reflect the center’s
lifelong grassroots connection with the
community. Its exhibit hall has been a
favorite for local artists to highlight their
work. The Space Coast Ballet also calls
the venue home.
EARLY BEGINNINGS
The story goes that, in the 1980s, a group
of women approached former president
of Brevard Community College now
Eastern Florida State College Maxwell
C. King to lead the drive for a major
performing arts theater.
“Max indeed took the lead with the
help of Lt. Gov. Tom Adams,” Catanese
recalled. “The state eventually provided
most of the funding.”
The venue, owned by EFSC, has enjoyed a
strong partnership with one of the area’s
largest employers, L3Harris, which donated
$1 million toward the recent renovations.
“L3Harris has always been the major
supporter,” Catanese said. “They see it as
a major recruiting advantage.”
For artists, the King Center is
memorable. For example, Josh Groban
performed there when he was still a
virtual unknown. And Tony Bennett, a
repeat performer, liked the acoustics so
32: SPACE COAST LIVING | SPACECOASTLIVING.COM
Renovations to the lobby include
major art installations.
Members of the Crown Club socialize before an evening’s performance.
much he belted out some songs without
any microphone or amplification. Bill
Cosby was doing his comedy routine
the day that charges against him
were announced. A sky full of media
helicopters hovered over the King Center
that day, but Cosby kept his cool and
gave the audience good laughs.
There was talk a few years back of
building a larger, newer venue, but the
unanimous preference was to bring
the existing building up to snuff. The
consensus was why mess with success.
“Without the King Center, our community
would be a less attractive place to live,
work and play,” Catanese said.
Upcoming shows
Jan. 15
Marcus Anderson*
Jan. 22
Brevard Symphony Orchestra Letters from Home
Jan. 26
Gaelic Storm
Little Feat
Jan. 30
Dwight Yoakam
Jan. 31
Tab Benoit
Visit www.kingcenter.com
for more information.
*First of a six-pack Smooth Jazz Series in the Studio Theatre
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