YOUNGSTOWN — The Youngstown Symphony Society Board of Directors laid off the administrative staff at the DeYor Performing Arts Center and entered into a management agreement with the staff of Stambaugh Auditorium to operate the downtown Youngstown theater complex.

According to a statement issued Tuesday by Stambaugh, the goal of the management agreement is to not only preserve, but to maximize the usage of the two premier performing arts venues in the Youngstown area.

DeYor, located at 260 W. Federal St., includes both Powers Auditorium and the Ford Family Recital Hall and also has hosted performances in its Flad Pavilion.

Matt Pagac, Stambaugh chief executive and operating officer is quoted in the statement, “While the arts and culture has been especially hard-hit due to COVID-related cancellations and the ban on mass gatherings, we feel that by sharing services and reducing costs, both organizations will emerge stronger when the pandemic is over.”

Chris Jaskiewicz, vice president of the YSS board, said in the statement: âThis partnership will help to create the best opportunity to overcome the current challenges and set both organizations on a path for long-term success as well as to ensure the future of the Youngstown Symphony Orchestra.

“The YSS Board of Directors have every intention of ensuring that the Youngstown Symphony Orchestra will continue as a professional orchestra and will be here when the pandemic is over.”