Dear Vermont,

It's time to come together for a conversation. In my 3 years at the Flynn, I've heard about many of the magical memories you and your children have made here since the organization was re-established in 1983. We have long been a fundamental part of Vermont's culture. I've heard about programming choices, diversity, safety in Burlington, costs, parking, staffing changes, the jazz festival, and how people across the state can have meaningful opportunities to participate in our work. I would like to invite you to join me in a discussion about our future. And when I say you, I mean you who is taking an interest and the time to read this.

The arts in Vermont are at risk. There are growing barriers to access for all communities. Our need for deep and sincere empathy for each other and ourselves is urgent and generating empathy is the fundamental role of the arts. The Flynn must become more than just a venue in Burlington in order to take on these issues. But how? How can the state's largest arts organization bridge geographic distances, economic disparity, demographic shifts, and other social and civic challenges so that every Vermonter has an opportunity to connect to their humanity through the arts?

On January 27, 28, and 29, You are invited to attend an Open Space meeting to begin to answer the question: What actions can the Flynn take now to have the greatest impact?

3 days might seem long, but we want to create enough space to get every issue and question on the table. We will work to understand all the critical questions facing the Flynn's future so we can prioritize our actions over the next 5 years. None of this can happen without an open, honest conversation that includes listening, curiosity, and kindness from each and every one of us.

I look forward to seeing you,
Jay Wahl
Executive Director

Saturday, Jan 27, 9 am - 5:30 pm
Sunday, Jan 28, 9 am - 5:30 pm
Monday Jan 29, 3 pm - 7:30 pm