Following the death of long-time Opera Roanoke supporter and friend, Joseph (Joe) Logan, III on May 30, 2018, his legacy continues to breathe sustaining life into a company he cared for so deeply.
Mr. Logan served two terms as President of the opera’s Board of Trustees and was a champion for arts and culture in Roanoke, according to Brent Murrill, Opera Roanoke’s Director of Development. “His loss has been felt significantly among the arts community and all who knew him, and we’re continually seeing an outpouring of gifts in his memory.”
Recognizing the impact Joe had on Opera Roanoke, anonymous donors contributed a significant leadership gift of $250,000 to the company this summer. “The donors recognize the importance of Joe’s support of Opera Roanoke and wish to perpetuate his legacy. Their profound generosity will help ensure the future of this artistic gem in our community,” explained Steven White. White, a long-time friend of Mr. Logan and internationally acclaimed conductor, is serving as Opera Roanoke Interim Artistic Director.
To further recognize the impact he had on the organization, the 2018 Maestro Award, Opera Roanoke’s recognition award to significant contributors of the arts, in general, and opera, in particular, has been renamed in his honor (The Joseph D. Logan III Maestro Award.) “He was the first to receive this award, so it’s only fitting that we rename it for him. He is the true embodiment of what the award represents,” said Betsy Head, President of the Board of Trustees.
At a special recognition dinner, following the season-opening gala concert of Opera to Die For on October 14, Opera Roanoke will present Regine Archer of Salem, another long-time opera supporter, with this year’s award.
For more information, including tickets to Opera to Die For and the 2018 Joseph D. Logan, III Maestro Award gala presentation dinner, please contact Opera Roanoke at 540.982.2742 or visit operaroanoke.org.