What is being built?

The Maryland Center for the Arts is building a new Community Arts Center that will include an outdoor performance stage connected to the main building. The stage will feature lawn seating, with a special VIP viewing area. Inside, the building will offer dressing rooms, restrooms, and stage storage on the main level. The lower level will include a flexible open space, offices, and additional restrooms.

 

Will my donations to date be recognized, and if so, how?

Yes—your support is deeply appreciated and will be recognized. The project has been made possible by the generosity of many donors over the years. To honor that legacy, we are creating a Founder’s Garden—named in recognition of the Mechanic Foundation, one of our leading founding donors. This beautiful, publicly accessible garden will include pathways, benches, arbors, and other features to celebrate the contributions of our early supporters in meaningful and lasting ways.

 

Will donations for seat names be honored at the Community Arts Center?

Yes—seat naming donations will absolutely be honored. The Community Arts Center will include a VIP area on the Performance Plaza, offering prime viewing and a beautifully designed hardscaped space. Naming recognition for seat donors will be featured in this area. In addition, seat donors will have the opportunity to purchase tickets for seating in the VIP section during performances.

 

Will donations for bricks be honored?

Yes—bricks purchased prior to the start of the capital campaign will be installed in the Founder’s Garden to recognize the generosity of our early supporters.

 

What is the projected cost to complete the Community Arts Center?

The first phase of the Community Arts Center is estimated to cost $3 million to construct. We are actively seeking funding from a variety of sources, including the State of Maryland, private foundations, and generous private donors. There are also several naming opportunities available for those who wish to make a lasting impact on the project.

 

When is construction expected to begin?

Our goal is to obtain a building permit by 2027, after which we will begin construction on the Community Arts Center.

 

What is the timeline for completing the Arts Center?

Once we break ground, construction of the Community Arts Center is expected to take approximately six months.

 

How will the building be used?

The Community Arts Center will feature an outdoor stage, restrooms, and office spaces. It will host a wide range of events, including theatrical performances, musical concerts, dance shows, cultural events, festivals, and more. The venue will also be available for public rental while serving as the home for our own events and programming. We welcome community input and suggestions for events and programming to make the space as vibrant and inclusive as possible.

 

Will the trails still be accessible once the Community Arts Center is complete?

Yes, the trails will remain open to the public after the completion of the Community Arts Center, ensuring continued access to the beautiful outdoor space.

 

How will the enslaved persons graveyard on the property be protected?

The enslaved persons graveyard on the property will be carefully preserved. Significant time and resources have been dedicated to identifying and documenting the location and number of graves. The graveyard is located outside of the cleared area and will remain undisturbed as part of our commitment to honoring this important piece of history.

 

Will the Community Arts Center be open during the colder months?

Yes, the Community Arts Center will be open year-round to host events. While demand may be higher in the warmer months, we are committed to offering programming and activities throughout all seasons.

 

Who can I contact to learn more or get involved?

For more information about the Community Arts Center project, donation opportunities, or ways to get involved, please contact:

 

Bob Willenbrink, Executive Director, Maryland Center for the Arts – 667-387-9555 or bwillenbrink@mdcfa.org

 

You can also make a donation or learn more by clicking HERE.