Approximately 40 residents of Orland Park attended a village-led community engagement session on Wednesday. The focus was on Centennial Park West and the idea of building a performing arts center. Ray Piattoni, the village’s parks and recreation director, expressed enthusiasm about the start of community involvement. He emphasized the importance of engaging as many residents as possible throughout the project and feasibility study.
Consultants from Keen Independent Research and Theatre Projects guided the session. They are tasked with creating a business plan for Centennial Park West and assessing the costs and benefits of a potential performing arts center. They outlined their work timeline, aiming to present findings early next year. Residents were encouraged to explore discussion questions at various stations in the Orland Park Police Department conference room.
“Today is just the kickoff. I think it’s a great start. It’s excellent to get the community involved.” – Ray Piattoni, Parks and Recreation Director
Mary Fischer, 12, and her mother, Tina Cucci Fischer, were excited by the prospect of a performing arts center. Cucci Fischer, who directs the Orland Park Children’s Theater program, had to reduce productions after the village cultural center closed in 2024. She appreciated the use of Studio VOP near Frontier Park, though it limits participation to 30 people and an audience of 100.
Mary, who began acting in community theater at age 3, noted that school productions often feel more comfortable due to better facilities. More space and improved lighting enhance the performance experience.
Julianna Rubio Slager of Ballet 5:8 showed enthusiasm about the potential venue. Her company hosts 50 dancers from around the world. She believes a performing arts center would benefit the community and attract more groups.
“There’s so many different choirs and community theater groups, and a lot of us are homeless.” – Julianna Rubio Slager, Ballet 5:8
The Village Board previously discussed using the performing arts center as a key component of their downtown plan. A redevelopment agreement requires the village to make a decision within three years. Mayor Jim Dodge prefers setting a decision deadline to avoid prolonged indecision.
Board member John Lawler supports the idea, seeing it as a way to draw more visitors and provide a space for arts activities. He is interested in expert input on Centennial Park West’s future, given past financial losses and management issues under former mayor Keith Pekau.
The consultants planned to observe Friday’s concerts at the venue to evaluate noise and visitor experiences. They also sought input from a joint meeting of the village’s 15 commissions and advisory boards. Residents can provide feedback via an online survey on the village website.