Concert in the Park - by Cathy Burton

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The opinions expressed in these articles and features are those of their author and do not necessarily reflect the positions of McANA or the opinion of its Directors or Officers.

Concert in the Park
by Cathy Burton
[President of McANA]

I have just returned from one of the free concerts offered in the Indy Parks this summer. Unfortunately, I have allowed my schedule to get so busy, that this is the first year I have taken the opportunity (at the urging of my family) to attend any part of the Summer Arts program. And I did not realize what I was missing.

I have only been to two performances (we tried a third one, but ran for the hills when the tornado sirens went off), but each time, I came away thinking "why doesn’t everyone do this?" The music was wonderful, but that was only part of what made the experience so memorable. Sitting out on a grassy rise, munching on treats we brought along, and chatting with my family about whatever topic came to mind was certainly relaxing. But again, that was only a piece of why I was so delighted.

At both concerts (one by the Symphony and one a mix of Celtic and folk music), I was fascinated just watching the people. It has been a while since I have seen such a wide variety of people all so clearly enjoying themselves. It seems that these concerts, regardless of the musical style, are something that cross all boundaries of age, race, and economics. Grandmas, kids of all ages, couples, groups of friends all gathered throughout the evening, sometimes arriving together, sometimes clearly meeting at the park. They brought coolers and blankets, lawn chairs and dogs, and even the occasional bike or skateboard. Some sat through the entire performance, others moved around, getting refreshments, enjoying park facilities, and finding old friends.

If they got restless, kids could get up and play without disturbing those around them, or dance to the music if it moved them. People came and went as their schedules allowed. And yet, no one felt compelled to "shoosh" or complain if people were getting up and down from their seats. Somehow, rather than being a distraction, all the activity just seemed to add to an evening of leisure and talent. Even though you could see normal traffic on the busy streets outside the park, a reminder that the rat race continues to survive, there was a carefree air of time standing still, and for just a couple of hours, there was no need to rush, or figure out how to solve the next crisis.

It seems everyone I know is so busy trying to take care of those crises, large and small, that complicate our lives that we forget how to enjoy the lives we work so hard to protect. If you have ever doubted the importance of the arts in our lives, this series of performances in the parks is the best illustration I have seen for some time. I left the concert last night feeling like I had had a mini-vacation.

How fortunate we live in a City where such events are offered to everyone, not only those who can afford expensive tickets. And where, in tight financial times, our elected officials still recognize the value of preserving the arts and our cultural heritage, and find alternative ways to fund them when the budget gets tight.

And the best part - a dad, arriving late to join his family. Still in his dress pants and shirt, picking his way down the not too smooth hill, a frown on his face, clearly hassled by the events of his day. And his little barefoot daughter (I‘d guess around four years old), face smudged with dirt, and fingers sticky from a snack, jumping up into his arms, saying "I’ve been watching for you so we can dance." And you know what - they did.

(Note: Although the 2003 Summer Arts program is nearing an end, there are still several performances left. Call Indy Parks or log onto their website for more information.)

Cathy Burton