Opening Night at the Olympic Theatre Arts was full of surprises. Congressman Norm Dicks was present to congratulate Sequim on the newly refurbished facility.  Dicks saw to it that OTA received a $98,000 U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development Arts grant for a fire-supression and alarm system in the building at 414 N. Sequim Ave. Many members of the audience members said they felt the new facility adds a new dimension to the already rich artistic community of Sequim.

Before the musical, “Cabaret”, started, Sequim Gazette owner Brown Maloney presented a plaque naming the new stage as the Elaine and Bob Caldwell Main Stage. This designation acknowledges the time, energy and money the Caldwells devoted to remodeling the building.  Elaine Caldwell is the chairman of the board at OTA. Maloney spearheaded a “$100,000 in 100 Days” drive to secure contributions to finish the theater.

The final surprise was the performance of “Cabaret,” the large cast of which drew a standing ovation for its acting, singing and choreography that portrayed the exuberance of 1930 Berlin with the grim reality of the rise of the Nazi party.

“Cabaret” continues through Feb. 21.  For more information call 683-7326 between 1 and 5 p.m. Monday through Friday, or visit olympictheatrearts.org.