Building Community: Jackson Hole Center for the Arts
In a small community like ours, we are lucky to have a thriving, world-class arts scene, which is why Prugh Real Estate is a major supporter of organizations like Jackson Hole Center for the Arts, http://www.jhcenterforthearts.org. This modern campus is not only a hub for music, film, performance, seminars and workshops, it also houses 19 local nonprofits, creating a cultural epicenter two blocks from Town Square.
Celebrating its 8th year, Center for the Arts is on a mission to bring more diverse and affordable programming to the community. We sat down with Marketing Director Anne Bradley to learn more about The Center’s mission, and what’s coming up for 2016.
1. What are you most excited about for 2016?
When planning our calendar, we look at what the community is craving. The result is innovative, exciting programming that is challenging and intellectual as well as entertaining.
This year, we are hosting a variety of performances ranging from major music acts like Elvis Costello, Grace Potter, and Lyle Lovett, as well as spoken word events like Garrison Keillor, The Moth, NPR speakers, comedians, and fun family-friendly events like “Rhythmic Circus.”
2. Tell us more about the other resident organizations and community partnerships.
We house 19 local nonprofits including the Off Square Theatre Company, Dancers’ Workshop and the Jackson Hole Wildlife Film Festival. Our calendar is filled with more than 150 events each year, many of which are very affordable or free to the public.
In the last few years, we have also seen a surge of community organizations host innovative programming that ranges from talks to film premieres to speakers. Our community is isolated and craves intellectual stimulation. The Center aims to fill that gap.
3. How can local businesses support The Center?
There is a misconception that The Center is a “center for the rich,” which couldn’t be further from the truth.
In the beginning, there was a lot of private money raised to build The Center. Since then, the majority of our income comes from private donors and corporate sponsors like Prugh Real Estate. These donors underwrite our programming and allow us to keep ticket prices affordable.
Last year, we held more than 24 free events, and our average ticket price was $25 or lower. The money from ticket sales, donors and sponsors goes directly back into programming. We work hard to be good stewards of those funds.
4. How can an individual or family support the Center for the Arts?
Get involved, attend free and ticketed events, and bring your friends and family. For those who want to provide additional support, we also have several levels of sponsorship starting at $3,000.
Our Center Friends donors get invitations to VIP events, early access to ticket sales, and special opportunities to meet the artists and performers. It’s a way for families, couples and individuals to support us in a meaningful way and give back to the community.
More donors, means more programming, affordable ticket prices and continued investment in Jackson Hole’s vibrant cultural scene.
If you are interested in becoming a Center Friends donor, or would like to inquire about a corporate sponsorship, please contact Ponteir Sackrey at The Center Fund 307-734-8956, pontier@jhcenterforthearts.org.
