By Lookout Staff

April 14, 2010 -- There will be an eighth Twilight Dance Series concert on the Santa Monica Pier this summer thanks to a $20,000 sponsorship from the Bayside District Corporation (BDC).

“Both the staff and Board felt strongly that we needed to show our support for this beloved event," said Kathleen Rawson, CEO of Bayside District Corporation. "The Twilight Dance Series has grown beyond a local summer tradition in Santa Monica, it’s beneficial to the entire Los Angeles area.”

The sponsorship -- which helps the Pier Restoration Corporation (PRC) surpass $155,000 in fundraising -- allows the agency to add another concert back into the line-up. It also pumps money into the Downtown and gives the area added visibility at a concert that draws more than 10,000 people.

"Attendees park in the Downtown structures and either come early or stay late to meet friends, eat dinner, do a little shopping or just walk around," Bayside officials said.

Pier officials lauded the sponsorship. “I’m thrilled to see the outpouring of support and the most recent partnership with our sister organization, Bayside District Corporation,” said Kent Smith, Chair of the Pier Restoration Corporation Board. “This is fantastic news and makes us all realize what can be accomplished when we all work together.”

Bayside District officials say they want to further the "symbiotic relationship" between the Pier and Downtown.

“It’s natural that people enjoy both areas when they come for the concerts," said Bayside Board member Kelley Wallace, who chairs the Marketing Committee for the agency.

"It’s such a short walk and when the weather is great, as it is during the summer, a stroll from the Pier through Palisades Park into Downtown is a fantastic way to spend the evening, “ Wallace said.

Executive Director of the PRC Ben Franz-Knight said, “We are excited to partner with Bayside District and look forward to a summer program that integrates all aspects of our wonderful beachside community. The generosity of Bayside District puts us one step closer to a full summer of free concerts.”

To secure a full summer with a minimum nine concerts an additional $27,000 will need to be raised by April 30th. To make a tax-deductible donation or learn more about the Twilight Dance Series, visit www.santamonicapier.org.