Actor's appearance raised $25,000 for State Theatre

By: Michelle Miller, Journal Staff Writer
12:29 PM PDT

Although they are still finalizing the books, the Auburn Placer Performing Arts Committee expects Aug. 27's "An Evening with Robert Conrad" event pulled in at least $25,000 to support a regional arts center at the Old State Theatre in Auburn.

The event at Placer High School's auditorium featured TV and film actor Robert Conrad, star of "Wild Wild West," and was attended by around 350, each of whom paid $10-$25 per person to hear about the actor's career.

A jacket belonging to Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger was also auctioned, bringing in $4,000.

"Beyond the auction, most of the funds came from sponsorships by individuals and area businesses," said George Graziano, the committee treasurer.

There are still some event expenses and sponsorship checks en route, but the committee expects to break the $25,000 mark, he said.

Committee president Bud Pisarek said the funds also enabled them to match a grant from the United Auburn Indian Community, which pledged $14,500 if the committee could match that in fund-raising.

The UAIC funds and the committee's contribution will provide the $29,000 the committee needs to hire architect Ron Lichau to start drafting plans to renovate the Old State Theatre building at 985 Lincoln Way into an 800-seat performing arts center.

Pisarek said the committee reached its fund-raising goal.

"We were aiming for around that - $25,000 to $30,000 - and we hit it," he said. "We were happy with all the publicity, as well, because it created a lot of interest in the project."