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Setbacks abound...

1/28/2014

It's always frustrating when dealing with a remodel project. A bit of a setback this week trying to get an architect to approve plans for the remodel. It's a requirement. However, it's a relatively small project, so I'm having trouble finding an architect who will take on a smaller project. A bit of a let down this week, but I'm determined to have this come to fruition.

WIth that determination in mind, we began painting some of the theatre area to convert it into a black box theatre.

On a positive note, the Business Improvement District of West Allis is thrilled to have this development in the downtown area of West Allis. We met yesterday to discuss ways in which our gallery/theatre can tie into planned activities that traditionally draw throusands of people into West Allis. It was a very productive meeting...and uplifting! -Erico

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Mayor's Call

1/18/2014

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Mayor Dan Devine called yesterday to congratulate me and to thank me for bringing the arts to West Allis. We spoke of art and theatre and travel and ... it was a great conversation, full of encouragement and words of support! Thanks for making my day, Mayor Dan! I look forward to meeting you at the Grand Opening on March 1st.

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Mirrors and Ceilings and Ghosts... oh my!!

1/15/2014

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It's been an exhausting couple of days, but so much has been accomplished! Ceiling tiles have been removed above the performance area to prepare for installation of proper stage lighting. My amazing sister, Norma, recruited friends to help clear spaces, put up shelving, empty the garage...and clean, clean, clean! She's been a godsend! Thanks for all the hours and hours of help, Norma.

Three large mirrors were removed from this wall, only to find that there were two windows hiding behind them. The wall had to become white--it just had to--and it looks great! Rosie and I tackled that one. We're making great progress getting the gallery space ready for displaying art, but there's still a bit more to go.

Next are the lights and hanging system. Whew!

Norma's friend, Minga, kept getting spooked whenever the furnace would kick in... but also things were falling from untouched shelves when she'd walk away. It was time to cast away some unhappy spirits. So JudyLee brought the candles and together all the women walked throughout the property... exit doors open on each end... and asked the spirits to share the space peacefully ... or leave! Things went much better after that until JudyLee blew out a candle and was immediately hit on the head by a ceiling tile.

Can we ever really set spirits free or do they need to choose that for themselves?

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Erico Ortiz

Erico Ortiz was born in Cayey, Puerto Rico and was raised in Milwaukee. He earned his undergraduate degree at Marquette University (Spanish Education) and a Masters Degree from UW-Milwaukee (Administrative Leadership). After working for Milwaukee Public Schools (teacher, administrator) for 33 years, it was time for retirement and a new direction.
Erico has worked with several community theatre companies, both on stage and behind the scenes, something he still enjoys today, and is a board member of the Village Playhouse. He plays guitar and can be found Sunday mornings directing the Spanish choir at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Parish in Milwaukee.
Painting has become a passion since retirement in 2011, leading to the development of Erico's Gallery. Since then, he has delved into the arts world by becoming involved with Riverwest Artists Association and the Sheboygan Visual Artists. This latest venture, the purchase of an art gallery and performance space should prove to be exciting.

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Setbacks abound...

Mayor's Call

Mirrors and Ceilings and Ghosts... oh my!!

Erico Ortiz

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