Letter: Keep open mind on cultural center

I have read a constant barrage of letters opposing any form of a new cultural center somewhere near the bridge to Hilton Head Island. Personally, I agree if the finances don’t work, we shouldn’t do it, but the new committee looking at the possibility of a cultural center with a performance hall is really just getting started. They have yet to examine the business model that would support it. What the economics of a large facility versus a much smaller one like the existing arts center? Does a large outdoor component make sense?

Here is an idea to consider. We could lease the performance hall to Disney or a similar group for the months of June, July and August. They would present family shows in the facility aimed at visitors. While there, they could also visit and a museum dedicated to Mitchelville and the history of the Gullah people, or a Lowcountry art gallery

In the meantime, our orchestra and World Affairs Council are bursting at the seams at First Presbyterian Church, which is straining to accommodate those groups and still give priority to church functions. In a year or two neither group will fit in the church.

Lastly, while our beach remains our greatest attraction, national interest in golf is declining. A new cultural center would keep us on the map as a great destination. Imagine a Hilton Head Film Festival in the fall.

Let’s wait to see all the evidence before we make up our minds.

This story was originally published May 23, 2016 at 4:44 PM with the headline "Letter: Keep open mind on cultural center."