The Park City Institute: Still entertaining, educating, and illuminating
By Julie Hooker
The Park City Performing Arts Foundation (PCPAF) is changing its name to the Park City Institute.
Executive Director, Teri Orr, explains, “The name change gives us a better umbrella for all the ways our organization has morphed over the years. We’re proud of the performing arts, but we’ve always been more than that.” Since its inception, PCPAF has hosted speaker soirees, concerts, events, and educational outreach.
Once such production is PCPAF’s introduction of TEDx in Park City. TED Talks (Technology, Entertainment, Design) are conferences that bring together global speakers for stimulating dialogue and encouraging “ideas worth spreading.” TEDx gives communities the opportunity to organize TED-like experiences at the local level.
To date, PCPAF has produced TEDxPark City and TEDxPark City Women featuring both nationally renowned TED talks and local presenters. Orr said, “We found through TEDx a real hunger to put people in front of global information that has been synthesized and united around an idea.”
Nicole Chang, a concert pianist and student notes, “The PCPAF makes sure that all the beautiful talents and stories in this community can be shared with the world. I was honored to share my own story in TEDxPark City. There was an atmosphere of respect and kindness created by PCPAF [now the Park City Institute] that you really can’t find anywhere else.”
In 2009, PCPAF opened a literacy center, The Mega-Genius Supply Store and IQ HQ. In addition to tutoring, the center bolsters self- esteem and encourages creativity in students.
“Sharing the Eccles Center with The Park City Performing Arts Foundation has enhanced student achievement,” notes Principal Bob O’Connor. “PCPAF has facilitated student outreach programs with dancers, actors, and musicians. In addition, they’ve brought world-class speakers and authors to our community that encourage our students to become citizens of the world.”
The Park City Institute will continue to feed Park City’s artistry, inspire creativity and promote global dialogue.
