Pauker to be honored at WAC gala
Nanette Morges
WESTPORT — In his 40 years in Weston and Westport, Richard Pauker has touched thousands of lives through his passion for and dedication to the arts.
Pauker, an artist and steadfast supporter of the Westport Arts Center for the past decade, will be honored during the WAC's 40th anniversary gala at the Westport Country Playhouse on Saturday, April 10 at 8 p.m. Billed as "The Boys in Concert," the gala event features members of the original cast of the Tony Award-winning musical "Jersey Boys."
A member of WAC's board, Pauker served as president of the board from 1998 to 2003. Among his many contributions was spearheading the WAC's move from Greens Farms School to its current location on Riverside Avenue. Pauker and his wife, Joyce, continue to participate in every aspect of WAC's arts programming, including exhibition openings, family programs and chamber music and jazz concerts.
"He's constantly at work behind the scenes — talking to sponsors and potential donors and educating individuals about the important role that WAC plays in the community," said Nancy Heller, executive director of the Westport Arts Center. "At every turn, Dick is there offering his time and energy, tremendous financial support, and kind and encouraging words for staff members and volunteers."
To celebrate Pauker's longstanding involvement, a short documentary film about Pauker and the Westport Arts Center will be screened in the Playhouse's theater before the gala concert performance. The film was donated by 4th Row Films' creator Doug Tirola. Sandy Lefkowitz, adult coordinator of the Westport Youth Film Festival, has been working with Tirola and his staff on the film.
"In the process of making the film, it become evident how our community has been so supportive of the growth and evolution of the Westport Arts Center over the past 40 years," Lefkowitz said. "Richard Pauker is one of those community members who believes that the arts represent the soul of a community."
Proceeds from the gala will support a wide variety of Westport Arts Center programs, including exhibitions, concerts, lectures, children's workshops and outreach initiatives, which reach more than 15,000 people each year. Premium tickets still are available in a limited number, offering entry to the concert performance and sold-out After Party, featuring a D.J., open bar, savory snacks and plenty of dancing. To purchase tickets, call the Westport Country Playhouse at 203-227-4177, or visit the website at www.westportplayhouse.org.
The Westport Arts Center is a nonprofit organization dedicated to creating arts experiences that contribute to individual growth and enrich the community. For more information, contact the Westport Arts Center at (203) 222-7070, visit www.westportartscenter.org, or visit the gallery, M-F, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Sat. and Sun. from noon to 4 p.m., at 51 Riverside Avenue, Westport.