COLUMBIA -- Is it okay to clap every time the symphony stops playing?

If you're a seasoned concertgoer, that question may never cross your mind. But if you're a young adult attending your first symphony, that question may pose a dilemma.

That's why the South Carolina Arts Commission is teaming up with the South Carolina Philharmonic, Trustus Theatre, The Power Company, The Nickelodeon and the Columbia Museum of Art to launch Columbia's New Audience Road Show. The Road Show is a fun way for Columbia-area residents ages 23 to 39 to get a behind-the-scenes look at what's involved in creating and presenting art for the stage, screen and wall.

New Audience Road Show members will visit each of the participating arts organizations three times. During the first two visits, participants will learn about the art form, from the basics of composition to the mood-altering effects of stage lighting and camera angles. Participants will talk with artists, staff and board members, try their hand at each art form and take backstage tours.

The third visit will include a performance or opening, and each "roadie" will be encouraged to invite friends and share what they've learned. The Road Show will also visit with the Columbia Slam Poetry team, Columbia's bluegrass bands and with anyone and anything else of interest to the group.

There's no charge to participate, and the program runs from September 2008 to May 2009.

Application deadline is July 31. Applicants will be invited to informal meetings to find out more details about the program.

For more information, call Katie Fox at 803-734-8696 or visit the Road Show's My Space page.

Special to The T&D

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