Roberta Gassman: Supporting Overture to ensure future generations have access to the arts
Shari Gasper
Roberta Gassman of Madison fondly remembers the opening of Overture Center in September 2004.
“It was thrilling,” she said. “Jerry Frautschi greeted guests at the front door as they entered and shook their hands.”
A lifelong arts enthusiast, Gassman played a memorable part in helping to build support for Overture during its conception and construction phases. She felt it was extraordinary to see Jerry Frautschi and Pleasant Rowland’s dream come to fruition through the dedication of architect Cesar Pelli, building contractor Findorff, project manager George Austin and the outstanding project team.
Before retiring in 2014, Gassman built a successful career as a public policy government official at the local, state and national levels. She formerly served as a top policy advisor for Madison mayor Paul Soglin, the Dane County Executive and Governor Tony Earl as well as Wisconsin’s Secretary of Workforce Development in the cabinet of Governor Jim Doyle and a US Department of Labor Deputy Assistant Secretary for Employment and Training in the administration of President Barack Obama in Washington D.C.
Because of her years of experience with the media, communications and government relations, Gassman was asked by Overture’s design team to assist with engaging the public with the project and telling its story to the broad community.
“It was very meaningful to help tell Overture’s story and how it was being built for the benefit of all to enjoy and use,” she recalled.
Gassman led community input sessions, with the design team presenting the plans and citizens having a chance to offer feedback and recommendations.
“And as we all know, Jerry’s original pledge of $50 million grew to $206 million as the community needs and designs evolved, ultimately creating the most extraordinary, privately funded public performing and visual arts center in the country,” said Gassman. “Overture was created with a commitment to excellence including the finest acoustics available. We are a very fortunate community, region and state to have such an extraordinary gem in our midst.”
She has loved Overture since its planning stages and opening nearly 20 years ago, and she remains dedicated to the organization today.
“When Jerry and Pleasant stepped forward to create Overture Center, I was inspired by their commitment to the arts, excellence and our community,” she said. “I want to do my part to keep their vision alive. I recognize the value Overture brings to all Madisonians and beyond—our kids, families, economy, well-being.”
Gassman has served on the Overture Center Foundation Board and has chaired its Development Committee. She is now a member of the Capital Campaign Cabinet for Overture Forever, working to ensure that Overture remains healthy long into the future.
Gassman has been inspired by the arts from an early age. She grew up in Evanston, Illinois, and went to its only public high school, Evanston Township High School, a school strongly influenced by nearby Northwestern University, and known for its outstanding theater, arts and music programs.
“Our high school had a large theater arts department, and we put on outstanding productions,” she recalled. “When I came to the University of Wisconsin-Madison, I thought of majoring in theater.”
Instead, given her interest in social change, she earned her bachelor’s degree and master’s degree in social work. As an undergraduate student, volunteering at Madison’s historic first settlement house and community center, Neighborhood House, she met fellow youth worker Lester Pines, now her husband of 52 years. Pines went on to law school, and the two settled down in Madison and eventually started their family here.
Through annual donations and planned gifts, Gassman and Pines support Overture because it has provided so much for their family and the arts in Madison and throughout the region.
Both their daughters grew up active in the arts—studying ballet, singing and performing in many “Nutcracker” and Children’s Theater of Madison productions, frequenting the Civic Center for many rehearsals and performances. During their high school years, Gassman was president of the West High School Choral Boosters and the West High School Drama Boosters.
“As a parent, I saw what the arts gave to our kids—self-confidence, discipline, friendships, follow-through, teamwork, joy,” said Gassman. “And what they gained from the arts they carry with them and use in their careers today.”
Gassman and Pines continue to visit Overture frequently. They are season subscribers to Broadway at Overture, Madison Symphony Orchestra and Forward Theater and attend multiple Overture Presents performances each year.
“We love the space and going to shows,” said Gassman. “We love to support Overture.”
The couple wants other families to enjoy the same magic they experience at Overture.
“To be there when Overture opened and to see how much the organization has grown over the years is wonderful,” she said. “Overture is an extraordinary resource for the community. We are so lucky to have it in Madison.”