Steve Schankman, president of Contemporary Productions, has made a gift to the Saint Louis Symphony Orchestra, on behalf of the Schankman Family Partnership, enabling the purchase of a portable band shell the orchestra will use at its summer parks concerts and other outdoor performances.
“The Saint Louis Symphony has been fortunate to enjoy a long relationship with the Schankman family,” said Randy Adams, president and executive director. “Beginning with Leon Schankman’s 26 seasons as a violinist with the Orchestra, the Schankman family has supported our organization with its talent, energy and resources for more than 50 years.”
The Saddle Span S5000, to be known as the Schankman Family Pavilion, can be erected in three hours without forklifts, cranes or other special equipment. With one end used as a back wall, the Saddle Span serves as a portable band shell and stage cover. It will debut at the orchestra’s May 30 concert at Innsbrook and will also be used at free parks concerts in June sponsored by St. Louis County.
“The Symphony has long needed a portable performance shell in keeping with its stature as a great orchestra,” said Schankman, who has served on the symphony board for 14 years. “With a distinctive look, excellent acoustics and great sight lines, the Schankman Family Pavilion will enable people to enjoy this summer’s free concerts even more than in the past.”
