Photo by Amanda Wray
LET’S REVIEW
Jim Cavener
A
t the beginning of March 2021, a month that marks one year and counting of pandemic conditions that have forever altered the landscape of local and global performing arts, Managing Director Rae Geoffrey sat down with longtime arts reviewer and scholar Jim Cavener to learn a bit about the history of performing arts in Western North Carolina. Rae: Jim, thank you for your time today. You’ve seen a huge amount of change in this area throughout the years. Can you tell me about your history as a reviewer?
newspapers, though with a focus on somewhat traditional theater. When writing for newspapers in my native Southern California, I was referred to simply as “the arts writer.” It was a dream appointment, with a discerning editor who allowed me to cover almost any theater event, art museum or gallery opening, or performing arts presentation
Jim: My awareness has been honed by 33 years of writing reviews, advances and features across the spectrum of the arts, for both local and out-of-town 34
