Muir Fundraiser Makes ‘Em Laugh And Garners Close To $20,000

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Host for the Really Big Show are Dan Hacking (2003-2010), John Paramo (2010-2012), Bruce Osgood (1999-2003), Dr. Greg Miller (2012-present). ( Photo by Ross A. Benson)

Burbank turned out in full force Saturday evening, February 22, in support of John Muir Middle School’s auditorium fundraiser The Really Big Show. Nearly $20,000 was raised from ticket sales, auction items, concessions and donations, according to the John Muir Booster Association.

Business and community partners joined parents, students, teachers and administration of the Burbank Unified School District for a pre-concert reception, silent auction and a night of entertainment.

(Photo by Ross A. Benson)
(Photo by Ross A. Benson)

The evening was emceed by four past and present Principals of Muir: Bruce Osgood, Dan Hacking, John Paramo and Dr. Greg Miller, the current head of the school. The four gentleman had the packed house rolling in the aisles with their rendition of Lady Gaga’s “Applause,” complete with dance moves and feather boas.

It was a great night for everyone involved and a great start to our campaign to modernize our 60-year old auditorium,” commented Miller. “The Muir and Burbank High student performers were amazing, and our faculty band, the Muir Mortals, were incredible, particularly ‘Ode to the Aud’ which they wrote especially for the evening.”

“It was great fun to work with former principals Bruce Osgood, Dan Hacking, and John Paramo, who helped out because they love Muir.” 

(Photo by Ross A. Benson)
(Photo by Ross A. Benson)

Several of Burbank High School’s arts and music programs were well represented, including the VMA Sirens, Third Street Jazz Combo, “Unleashed” Dance, IMA String Quartet, Play Production and Gentleman’s Octet.

In the second act, Muir’s own Drama, Choir and Band programs worked together to present an original musical production about the beloved auditorium and its need for repair.

(Photo by Ross A. Benson)
(Photo by Ross A. Benson)

Burbank Arts For All Foundation has provided over $5000 to the Muir auditorium project during the past year. The Muir auditorium has been basically untouched for over sixty years, with only a few minor adjustments made. While some Measure S Bond money is available to upgrade air conditioning and related bond-measure items, the bulk of the renovation falls on the school to provide.

“It was great to see our community come out and support Muir and we are so grateful for everyone’s contribution to a very successful night,” added Miller.

The Auditorium Task Force has been working to raise $100,000 to cover costs of needed upgrades for lighting, sound, seating and more for the 674-seat space the school calls “Our Living Room.” The Really Big Show came about as a way to kick off the campaign, bring the community together and have some fun while doing so.

(Photo by Ross A. Benson)
(Photo by Ross A. Benson)

“The night also kicked off our matching challenge grant from Warner Brothers,” Miller said.

“Thanks to their generosity, they will match dollar for dollar every donation that comes in during the next 60 days,” he explained. “The challenge is that we only get the $10,000 if the whole amount is raised, so we are still looking for donations large and small to help with this project.”

The John Muir Booster Association is collecting all donations towards the auditorium modernization. Donations to the project can be made directly on the school’s auditorium project page or by contacting Principal Miller at 818-558-5320.

The school is also conducting a tile design campaign to raise funds and more information can be found on the same web page.

JohnMuirBoosterAssociation@hotmail.com.
JohnMuirBoosterAssociation@hotmail.com.calling the school at
    BurCal Apartments8715

    1 COMMENT

    1. Thank you for your attendance MYBurbank-great pictures!!! I hope we reach our goal of $10,000 in donations so that Warner Brothers can match it! We appreciate everyone that came out and supported the show!

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