Friday, September 1, 2023
Photos by Cindy Davis Meixel, writer/photo editor (unless otherwise noted)
As the Community Arts Center marks a yearlong observance of its 30th anniversary, the historic entertainment venue hosted a PM Exchange on Aug. 31 for members of the Williamsport/Lycoming Chamber of Commerce.
Attended by area businesses and nonprofit organizations, the evening featured live entertainment, cuisine prepared by Pennsylvania College of Technology’s Le Jeune Chef Restaurant, a viewing of the arts center’s 30th anniversary video and remarks by Williamsport Mayor Derek Slaughter and CAC Executive Director Jim Dougherty.
Williamsport Mayor Derek Slaughter (at podium) delivers a proclamation addressing the Community Arts Center’s 30-year history during a PM Exchange held Aug. 31 for members of the Williamsport/Lycoming Chamber of Commerce. At right is CAC Executive Director Jim Dougherty.
A proclamation addressing the history and success of the facility was delivered by Slaughter. Among the statements: “Whereas, as of 2023, the Penn College Community Arts Center has provided its worth as an economic stimulator for the hospitality, travel and tourism industry in the region over the years; and Whereas, in 2023, the Penn College Community Arts Center celebrates its 30th anniversary by continuing to provide a unique arts experience to Williamsport and surrounding communities.”
A highlight of the evening was the unveiling of two recently renovated Star Dressing Rooms. Tours of the rooms, located behind the stage, were offered to attendees.
The dressing room renovations were made possible by the generosity of John C. and Linda D. Lundy, of Williamsport.
“Linda and I wanted to do what we could to better accommodate the stars in our most attractive Community Arts Center,” John C. Lundy said.
The renovation project was completed this summer and included new flooring, furniture, paint, ceilings, countertops, lighting, mirror lighting, showers, sinks and artwork.
National tours frequently comment on how welcoming we are as a venue and a community, and being able to update our facilities to increase the comfort level of local and national performers helps us to make a positive impact and attract quality talent.
Jim Dougherty
CAC executive director
Two recently renovated CAC Star Dressing Rooms were unveiled during the PM Exchange at the historic entertainment venue, which is celebrating its 30th anniversary.
“We’re very fortunate to have supporters like the Lundy family, whose generosity has allowed us to breathe new life into our Star Dressing Rooms,” Dougherty said. “National tours frequently comment on how welcoming we are as a venue and a community, and being able to update our facilities to increase the comfort level of both local and national performers helps us to make a positive impact and attract quality talent.”
Over the past 30 years, time has taken a toll on the theater, and upgrades to the CAC will ensure the facility remains a valuable community asset and key attraction for travel and tourism in the region.
“For three decades, faithful donors have come together in support of the Community Arts Center to create an unforgettable, live-event experience for our region to enjoy. It is wonderful to see how much they continue to treasure the CAC,” stated Ana Gonzalez-White, college relations officer in charge of CAC development. “I am grateful to the Lundys for their kindness and so many others in the community who appreciate and support what we do.”
The CAC’s first performance was held in May 1993, following an extensive overhaul of the historic facility which originally opened in October 1928 as the Capitol Theatre, a movie house and vaudeville theater.
A cornerstone of downtown Williamsport and major catalyst in its recent revitalization, the CAC offers a broad range of programming dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for the community.
For information on the 2023-24 Performance Series, visit the CAC website. To learn more about giving opportunities, contact Gonzalez-White at 570-327-7657 or by email.
The CAC is owned and operated by Penn College, a national leader in applied technology education.
A tour group strolls across center stage after viewing the recently renovated Star Dressing Rooms “in the wings.”
30 years spelled out in sweet treats
“Legend since 1993,” indeed!
PM Exchange guests savor hors d’oeuvres on the arts center’s second-floor mezzanine (among the venue’s numerous gathering spaces) …
… while being entertained by local musicians David Lynn (left) and Sean Farley.
Members of the Williamsport/Lycoming Chamber of Commerce check into the PM Exchange in the CAC’s outer lobby.
Mayor Slaughter hands Dougherty a copy of the proclamation championing the CAC's "mission to provide exceptional arts and entertainment to the diverse needs of its regional audience." (Photo by Steven M. Ault, manager of marketing communications)
The Lundys' philanthropy is reflected in a commemorative wall plaque.
Dougherty adds some PM polish to a community jewel ...
... and shakes hands with the city's mayor. (Photo by Steven M. Ault)
The Community Arts Center: Three decades old, and still in the flower of youth.
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