While Oxford theater manager Margaret Payne was sitting on a hilltop under a tree up north, she had an idea.
‘I just thought ‘this was the best seat in the world,?? she said.
And just like that, the idea to create a tree plaque holder for the Best Seat in the House at the Performing Arts Center was born.
Payne said a committee had been established prior to the new high school being built to come up with extra funds for the arts programs in Oxford schools, but was put on hold for a while.
For $100, anyone can purchase an engraved brass plate to honor a current or former student, family member or friend of the arts.
Twenty brass plates have been purchased already, and the tree can hold 400.
When Payne decided on a tree carving, she knew teacher Brian Agar would be the perfect man for the job.
Agar has created numerous wood carvings and donated his time, 150 hours of it to be exact, to make the tree.
Oxford art teacher Becky Ziemianski drew out a pattern for the wooden tree plaque before Agar carved it.
Using a sabre saw, Agar carefully carved into birch wood to create the tree top, and for a more personal touch, used oak desktops from the old high school to create the trunk.
‘It gives the community the chance to show their support for the different branches of the arts,? Ziemianski said.
Payne’s husband, George, also helped finish the tree plaque by staining it. Payne, Ziemianski and Agar all agreed that the unique wooden tree plaque brings a new element to the high school. ‘Everyone has felt it adds a nice warmth to the lobby,? Payne said.
To purchase an engraved brass plate, fill out the order form at www.oxford.k12.mi.us. Click on the ‘Performing Arts Center? link, and then the ‘Best seat in the House? link.