Center Stage solves financial struggles with new Jazz Series in Santa Barbara

SANTA BARBARA, Calif. – Drummer Kevin Winard is getting ready to riff away with a new jazz band at Center Stage Theater in Santa Barbara.

"Center Stage has been around for over 34 years and it was created to offer a venue space for up and coming artists," said social media and promotions manager Jim Sirianni of Center Stage Theater.

The up and coming jazz band called Simpatico will perform as part of the new Jazz Series at the center.

"We are listening to each other ... will be playing a variety of music. A lot of its vocal it’ll be different every time we play it so there’s the part of it," said musician Randy Tico of Simpatico.

The Jazz Series is a result of financial hardships the center has experienced in recent years.

“We used to host the French Festival before the pandemic … and because of the pandemic that went away for a few years and then it just became a financial hardship for us to try putting it on, so the board decided reluctantly to let go of the festival and cancel it," said Sirianni.

Since canceling the French Festival indefinitely, Center Stage had to pivot.

Local artists soon came up with a new way to raise funds through the Jazz Series. 

“Opportunity for people to experience jazz live at the same time it’s serving as a fundraiser for the theater," said Sirianni.

"Cuz jazz and music is just another corner of the greater music and greater good there should be more music more art in this town," said Tico.

Not only does the event serve as a fundraiser, Center Stage believes it’s bringing new life to America's original art form - Jazz. 

"Downtown should be thriving with music all the time and art … first Thursday should be every day of the week in this town we should be known for that," said tico.

Center Stage hopes to continue this Jazz Series every month and beyond. 

"My hope is it raises enough money to help centerstage get back on his feet," said Winard.

For tickets and information about the Jazz Series and all the shows happening at Center Stage, or if you’re interested in renting the venue, visit centerstagetheater.org or call 805-963-0408.