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By Kevin Hart Dec 31, 2020 5:37 PM Like so many events this year, First Night had to make some changes to keep its yearly tradition going for its 34th year. In terms of performing, there are usually live concerts from local theaters like the Muni and the Theatre Centre among other local acts. There are also live demonstrations from local artists. Then at midnight, a fireworks show. This year there will also be performances from around the country, we will also see acts from Monterey, California and St Petersburg, Florida. First Night Springfield will begin at 8:00 P.M., and a fireworks show from St. Petersburg will bring the countdown to midnight. This virtual production is being created by Brian Crowdson; the evening’s hostess is favorite local actress, Aasne Vigesaa. Felicia Olin and Karen Nickerson created the promotional material.
“As the Arts Council approaches its 45 th anniversary in 2021, we’re giving First Night Springfield to our community at no charge,” says Sheila Walk, Executive Director. “To keep artists and audiences safe, several of our programs were COVID-cancelled this year, but we’re keeping this holiday tradition alive.” Like so many events this year, First Night had to make some changes to keep its yearly tradition going for its 34th year. In terms of performing, there are usually live concerts from local theaters like the Muni and the Theatre Centre among other local acts. There are also live demonstrations from local artists. Then at midnight, a fireworks show. This year there will also be performances from around the country, we will also see acts from Monterey, California and St Petersburg, Florida.
Mentoring and meeting needs Michael Phelon started The Outlet mentoring program in 2004. It's located on South 12th Street, though this year, the 30 mentors are mostly connecting with youth remotely. The program serves 48 youth from in and around Springfield with a focus on boys and young men from fatherless households. This year, Phelon has seen an enormous amount of personal loss. His mother and uncle died, as did his mentor, Dr. Clarice Ford, and his "right-hand man" at The Outlet, Marcus Butler Sr. "It's been rough for us. Most of the young guys that I work with, they are already coming from hard situations," said Phelon.