Arnie Hollander was in his yard gardening when I called him on the phone. After exchanging hellos, we discussed how for 30 years, Hollander has devoted his time, energy, and passion to creating meaningful theater experiences through his work with The Saints.
Founded at the Saint Nicholas Theatre in 1980, The Saints are a non-profit volunteer group for the performing arts. After the theater closed in 1981, The Saints eventually developed into an independent organization that works closely with over 100 greater Chicago area theater, dance, and music companies. Ushering shows and awarding financial grants to not-for-profit performing arts organizations, The Saints are dedicated to not only supporting the local artistic community, but creating opportunities for audiences of all ages to keep experiencing live shows.
Hollander first became involved with the organization due to his love for theater.
“My interest [in theater] started when I was in short pants at the Goodman Theatre when it was where The Art Institute was and I remember seeing ‘The Emperor’s New Clothes,’” Hollander said.
While a professional engineer, Hollander decided to become an usher for The Saints because it was a chance for him to engage with his passion and see hundreds of shows with his wife without breaking the bank.
After many years of being an usher, one opportunity arose that Hollander could not pass up: to become a coordinator for The Saints in addition to serving on The Saints’ board.
“As [my wife and I] ushered shows, saw rehearsals, and got to know people, we wanted to go further [with being involved],” Hollander said. “Since [The Saints] are a non-profit organization dedicated to helping theaters and giving grants to theater, we found so many ways that we could be helpful to the theater that went beyond just seeing shows.”
Hollander has been a coordinator for The Saints for 11 years and has worked very closely with Music Theater Works for 10 of them.
“[The Saints] have a special love for [Music Theater Works] and the people we have gotten to know so well that are a part of it.”
Unfortunately, Music Theater Works, like many other organizations, had to postpone their season this year due to COVID-19 and consequently, The Saints are responding to the theaters’ decisions about how to proceed by staying put.
With his free time during the pandemic, Hollander completes projects around the house and works on his garden with his wife. However, he does miss the interactions and connections The Saints provide.
“[My 30 years] have consisted of growing friendships with theaters, board members, and donors that have gone way beyond what I would have expected by joining The Saints,” Hollander said.
Hopefully 2021 will unite the Chicago theaters and The Saints again, allowing everyone to witness one of their favorite pastimes: the performing arts.