Celebrating 25 Years: A Look Back with Brian Finley
There’s nothing like an anniversary to reflect back on a journey. And especially to think back to the very beginning, that moment when we first said “Here we go!”
Of course, there was a tremendous ramping up several years before that day when we welcomed people to The Barn for the first time: the life-changing experience of Jesus Christ Superstar, the overwhelming confirmation of The Sound of Music, both productions featuring close to 150 participants each, of all generations. But when The Barn first opened on July 1, 2000, dream became reality.
I can still feel the excitement of those times, and I smile as I re-read my welcome statement in the inaugural program of 2000: “The Barn, Westben’s brand new summer facility, is a magnificent dream come true…The building and the site are filled with a myriad of voices, dreams and prayers: a colourful collection of personal melodies which have joined together to create a special, unique and wonderful harmony – even before the music starts!”
Phil Monner, Chair of the Westben Barn Board at the time, wrote in that same inaugural program: “Welcome one and all to Westben’s Gala Grand Opening of The Barn! The culmination of thousands of hours by hundreds of people…this event is only the beginning.”
And later, “Time will show us how to make the best use of this beautiful structure and its surroundings. For now, lets enjoy some great music-making, in a great setting, amongst a great community of people.” And here we are 25 years later; Phil’s message still rings true. Westben has grown into a Garden full of wonderful music in an amazing setting, surrounded and nurtured by an incredible community of people. And we are still happily exploring ways to nurture and enjoy this special harmony.
“Here we go!” has become a hearty “On we go!”