Dear Orlando Philharmonic Family,
When the Orlando Philharmonic purchased The Plaza Live in August of 2013, our goal was to provide the Orlando community with high-quality, uplifting musical performances presented by the Philharmonic and visiting artists alike. This dream started to become a reality as we celebrated the opening of the first phase of The Plaza Live Renovations last month.
While our mission remains strong, the senseless attack that took place here last Friday and the horrific events on Sunday at Pulse Club have had a life-changing impact on us all.
Our hearts and deepest sympathies go out to the family and friends of Christina Grimmie as well as those of the 49 victims from Pulse. Unspeakable tragedies like these affect everyone, including those who, through no fault of their own, become involved. We are grateful to the many who are helping heal and care for those impacted, including our own staff members who will be forever affected.
Part of healing requires moving forward. On Thursday, June 16, we reopened The Plaza Live with a performance by Yacht Rock Revue with a strong showing of support from The Friends, The Board, and the YRR band’s own dedicated, captain-hat-wearing fans. The audience shared a moment of silence at the beginning of the show for both Ms. Grimmie and the Pulse victims. It was an uplifting night of spirited music that comforted the hearts of all who attended. We are committed to continuing to offer inspiring music of all kinds at the Plaza Live. Additionally, the Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra is collaborating on numerous community tribute performances and the Plaza Live will open its doors for community gatherings.
We all mourn the tragic loss of life and send our condolences to everyone affected in the events of last weekend. Thank you all for the outpouring of love and support for our organization and our community. Let us turn to the arts and music that inspire us, to help us heal and move forward.
#OrlandoUnited
#RememberChristina
From our hearts,
The Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra