Copyright MassLive
SPRINGFIELD - It’s hard to believe that Springfield Performing Arts Ventures, Inc., known more commonly as 52 Sumner, has been around for almost two years already. What began with hosting about one show monthly in early 2024, the Springfield stage has now released its lineup for the next few months and beyond, and it features a full slate of both public and private events. “I think the biggest surprise has been how fast the venue has taken off,” co-founder Angela Park said in a recent interview with The Republican. “We all knew this was something special, but I don’t think we expected it to be as well-received by our community as it was. As an organization, we work very hard to have unique talent that you won’t see around us.” Park said that 52 Sumner had only been open for four months when it hosted its first nationally known act, Christone “Kingfish” Ingram. She said taking on such a challenge was a huge risk for the infant organization, but it turned out to be a huge success. “That’s when we knew we did something special,” Park said. Private events also play a key role in the theater’s success, Park said, as they allow her to keep ticket prices low and accessible to all. She and her co-founder Dan McKellick strive to maintain a good equilibrium between public shows and private events. “We have worked hard to schedule our theater productions and music events during specific times of the year, so it makes it easier to plug in community events as well as private parties,” she said. “This model has worked well and has not been too difficult to manage, but it is all about balance.” The venue has also become something of a destination spot for entertainment fans regionally. “We pay close attention to where our guests are coming from, and we have had guests not only from surrounding towns but as far as upstate New York, Rhode Island, and Fairfield County, Connecticut,” Park said. “This summer we had a ska festival that drew about 500 attendees over two days, and when talking to the attendees, they were telling me how it was impossible to get a hotel room and how Airbnbs were the only option left. When thinking about it, it was exciting to hear that we could be positively impacting business in our community.” Park also said that she and McKellick are committed to building a true community space and said that all of the people involved do not take payment for their work, making the venue a true labor of love. “This is a passion project for all involved. I think this speaks to the level of commitment we have to our community,” she said. “We love the arts and see the importance they hold for our community. Our mission is to make the arts accessible to everyone, and I believe we are accomplishing this.” 52 Sumner’s winter schedule features a variety of events from musical performances to community gatherings. Some of the upcoming events for the winter season include: Pawzaar Craft Fair on Nov. 8. This event features local vendors, raffles, and a bake sale to benefit the Foundation for TJO Animals. 4th annual YPS Friendsgiving on Nov. 20. A gathering with food, music, and raffles, with an optional opportunity to support the Boys & Girls Club of Springfield. MOSSO – Springfield Chamber Players Percussion Quartet on Nov. 23, featuring Nathan Lassell, principal percussionist of the Springfield Symphony Orchestra, and colleagues. Jingle & Mingle Multi Chamber Holiday Party on Dec. 9, a festive networking event with several local chambers of commerce. “The Christmas Carol” on Dec. 13, with tickets going on sale soon. “Candlelight: Christmas Carols on Strings” on Dec. 19, featuring live music played by a full orchestra surrounded by thousands of candles.
