The Broadway Center's Opening Night, A Taste of the Arts, gave South Sounders not only the opportunity to see the remodeled foyer of the Pantages, but also a crash course in local arts organizations.  While some of the set changes were a bit funky and odd, bottom line, the groups themselves dazzled, garnering several standing ovations in the evening. 

The Tacoma Symphony, Tacoma Youth Symphony, Tacoma Concert Band and others sounded sensational â€" powerful and inspiring.  To pay lip service to the talent in this city would be a disservice.  The musicianship here is alive, well and impressive. 

As for the new foyer?  It's nice.  There's better access to the restrooms, the stain glass ceiling is gorgeous, and there's a tiny bit more room to navigate between acts.  Bravo Broadway Center. Thanks for the local arts lesson. â€" Ken Swarner