Georgia § 50-3-69 - Official musical theatre.

§ 50-3-69. Official musical theatre.

The "Peach State Summer Theatre" is designated as the official musical theatre of the State of Georgia. The Department of Economic Development and other public agencies and leaders in the tourism industry are encouraged to work together to maximize advertising programs which permit citizens of other states and nations to learn of the Peach State Summer Theatre and to visit the State of Georgia for tourism purposes. (Code 1981, § 50-3-69 , enacted by Ga. L. 1993, p. 934, § 1; Ga. L. 2004, p. 690, § 25; Ga. L. 2006, p. 437, § 2/HB 343.) Editor's notes. - Ga. L. 1993, p. 934, § 2, not codified by the General Assembly, provides: "The Jekyll Island Authority and the University System of Georgia are commended for the exemplary cooperative efforts in creating the Jekyll Island Musical Theatre Festival, and they are encouraged to continue to support and develop this excellent program." Ga. L. 2006, p. 437, § 1/HB 343, not codified by the General Assembly, provides: "WHEREAS, the partnership between Valdosta State University and the Jekyll Island Authority to produce the Jekyll Island Musical Theatre has been dissolved and Valdosta State University has moved its summer theatre program to the Valdosta State University campus as the Peach State Summer Theatre; and "WHEREAS, the State of Georgia has recognized the importance of tourism to the economic and cultural well-being of its people through the establishment of the Department of Economic Development; and "WHEREAS, the enhancement of tourist attractions in Georgia, which would encourage tourists to extend their stay in Georgia, benefits the state; and "WHEREAS, many groups in the state are working to improve the quality of artistic and recreational experiences for Georgia residents and for out-of-state tourists as well; and "WHEREAS, the existence of musical theatre is a vital component of the artistic and cultural life of Georgia; and Georgia is committed to encourage and support artists' activities of the highest quality for the enjoyment and enrichment of the citizens; and "WHEREAS, Valdosta State University, a unit of the University System of Georgia, has received a Regents' Award for Excellence in the Theatre and has a 15 year history of producing the Jekyll Island Musical Theatre Festival, a professional repertory musical theatre company; and "WHEREAS, Valdosta State University is moving its summer theatre to Valdosta, Georgia, and will continue to present musical theatre of outstanding artistry to residents and tourists; and "WHEREAS, that summer theatre is named the Peach State Summer Theatre in celebration of the State of Georgia."