ATC IN YOUR COMMUNITY

Stellar Supporters and Fabulous Friends

Arizona Theatre Company is proud to introduce you to our great friends and the Production Underwriters of The Pajama Game in Tucson, Dr. Gerald and Mrs. Bette Zatuchni

ATC: What brought you to Tucson?
Upon retirement from Northwestern University Bette and I were interested in settling in Scottsdale but due to illness of our real estate agent in Scottsdale we were offered a week-end at the Arizona Inn in Tucson.  The very first house we saw interested us because we could build a studio and pursue our interests in artistic endeavors.

ATC: What did you do in your past lives?
Bette had many interests including European Antiques, Asian Art, and watercolor painting. She was involved in expanding the Meals on Wheels program in Chicago.
Gerry was a Professor in the department of obstetrics/gynecology at Northwestern University in beautiful downtown Chicago. For many years Gerry has been involved in research in human reproduction.

ATC: Both of you are visual artists…was there someone or something that motivated you as artists and helped plant the seeds for your philanthropic work over the years?
While living in Iran, Gerry developed an interest in oil painting and following a successful showing continued his passion for artistic endeavors.  Gerry spent ten years assisting John D. Rockefeller 3rd at the Population Council in the promotion of maternal/child health programs in developing countries of Asia, Africa and Latin America.  The opportunity to work in that capacity gave Gerry a greater understanding of philanthropy.

ATC: What inspires you to support the arts, specifically theatre as underwriters?
Bette and Gerry have always had interests in the Arts especially classical music, opera, dance and theatre. All of these have enriched our lives and by supporting these activities we hope that others will find the same enchantments as we have.

ATC: What would you like to see for the arts community in Tucson?
Gerry and Bette would like to see the Arts in Tucson continue to flourish and become the leading Arts community in the Southwest.  The Arizona Theatre Company, the Tucson Symphony Orchestra, the Arizona Opera, and the Tucson Museum of Art were organized many years ago when Tucson was a little noted place in the desert.  Certainly the dedication of those pioneers should be continually acknowledged and supported by the present community of business leaders and professionals so that Tucson continues its cultural expansion.

ATC: What has been a favorite moment of yours at ATC?
A most memorable evening at ATC was My Fair Lady and met Costume Designer, David Mickelson.  We vividly remember the amazing hats he created.  The entire show was absolutely stunning due to David Ira Goldstein’s direction.

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