SOPAC Names Theater In Honor Of Jennifer And Tony Leitner

Tony and Jennifer Leitner were honored at a dedication ceremony in the lobby of the South Orange Performing Arts Center on Monday, June 18. Former Maplewood residents, the Leitners were lauded for their long-time and unswerving dedication to advancing the mission of SOPAC to become a first-class presenting organization in the region. The main theatre is now known as the Jennifer and Tony Leitner Performance Hall. A new sign above the doors of the theater honors their generosity.

The philanthropic couple were early supporters of the performing arts center, and have shown support through the past decade through direct contributions and by sponsoring performances. In addition to financial support Tony Leitner was a member of the Board of Governors for many years, culminating in his being named chairman 2009-15. He continued to serve on the Board until June 30, 2018. His expertise and strategic wisdom guided SOPAC through difficult times, including the economic downturn of 2008.

Current SOPAC chairman Paul Bartick was unequivocal in praise of Mr. and Mrs. Leitner. "The Leitner's contribution cannot be overstated. Their generous largess and astute guidance has led SOPAC from construction through our startup stage and into the mission-driven phase we are enjoying now. Without the Leitners contributions in all areas, SOPAC would likely not be on its current successful trajectory."

The success of the regional performing arts center has been indelibly linked to the leadership of Mr. Leitner as chairman. Through his unwavering commitment to bring financial and artistic stability to the 12-year-old organization, SOPAC has now completed the past five seasons with a budget surplus and been voted "Favorite Small Performing Arts Center" in a statewide campaign by Discover Jersey Arts for the fourth consecutive year.

SOPAC is currently promoting its fundraising campaign "Entertaining the Future." During the last strategic planning session the need for an independent fund to assist SOPAC in bringing higher-level artists to the venue was identified. The campaign, chaired by Tony Leitner, has raised close to $1.2 million, and expects to reach its goal by the 2018 Gala on October 27. Donations in honor of Mr. and Mrs. Leitner can be made at https://www.sopacnow.org/support/entertaining-the-future.

SOPAC programs are made possible in part by the National Endowment for the Arts and the New Jersey State Council on the Arts.

The South Orange Performing Arts Center (SOPAC) is a 501(c)(3)charitable organization.

About SOPAC

Since 2006, SOPAC has been serving as a premier performing arts center in the region. SOPAC offers innovative artistic and cultural experiences for diverse audiences in an intimate, inviting environment. The premier arts center hosts a variety of live performances, community events and education programs for all ages. To further expand its offerings, SOPAC has a partnership with the Juilliard School of Music to present Juilliard @ SOPAC-a series featuring upcoming musicians from the acclaimed conservatory. SOPAC is home for Seton Hall University Arts Council's performances, including Classical Concert Series, Jazz 'N the Hall performances and Seton Hall University Theatre productions. SOPAC also presents performances by its theater company in-residence, American Theater Group. For more information, visit SOPACnow.org.

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