October 6, 2009
Maryland Symphony Orchestra to Offer Maryland State Employees “2 for 1” Ticket Deal

Hagerstown, MD—The Maryland Symphony Orchestra has joined forces with over 25 arts organizations across the state to, once again, embrace their role in One Maryland by offering discounted tickets to select special events, theatrical and dance performances, museums and concerts to the 67,000 State employees who have been furloughed in order to keep the state’s budget in balance through the ”Arts Step Up” program created by Maryland Citizens for the Arts (MCA).  The “Arts Step Up Program” was originally established last year when furloughs were first announced. 

“In the midst of a national recession, it can be easy to overlook the positive impact that the arts can have on our lives particularly in difficult times,” said Governor O’Malley.  “I want to thank the arts community for this thoughtful gesture.  Our State workforce—the best team of public servants in the nation—certainly appreciates it and looks forward to taking advantage of the opportunity.”

The MSO will be offering a “two-for-one” opportunity for each of its MasterWorks Concerts in October, November, February, March and April.  Since a State employee identification badge will be required at the time of purchase, ticket buyers must come in person to the MSO office at 30 W. Washington Street, Hagerstown (Monday through Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.).  Tickets start at $22 and processing fees will be waived.  Tickets may also be purchased on the evening or afternoon of a performance at the Maryland Theatre box office (21-27 S. Potomac Street) ninety minutes before the start of the concerts. 

For more information on the MasterWorks Series, go to www.marylandsymphony.org or call 301-797-4000.  Information on participating arts organizations throughout the state can be found at www.mdarts.org.

The Maryland Symphony Orchestra is the area’s premier professional orchestra, dedicated to providing musical performances that educate and entertain, while enhancing the cultural environment of Western Maryland and the surrounding region.

The Maryland Symphony Orchestra is supported by a grant from the Maryland State Arts Council (MSAC), an agency dedicated to cultivating a vibrant cultural community where the arts thrive.