Our Vision

Ancram Center for the Arts creates meaningful encounters through the performing arts that forge connection for residents living in a rural region. We believe performances—experienced in our small, intimate space—offer moments for discovery, instill a sense of place and contribute to a healthier and happier community. We also look to Ancram’s pastoral character to nurture artistic creation.

Our Next Act

Ancram Opera House was re-inaugurated in 2016 with an ambitious season for a fledgling theatre. Running from June to August, it featured the launch of our community storytelling program, Real People Real Stories, and a family-friendly performance of Les Moutons, staged outdoors on the lawn.

Today, our activities extend to eight months of the year. We’re creating opportunities for artists to develop and showcase new work, producing two fully staged theatre productions each year, and our storytelling program is now an established part of the curriculum at the Taconic Hills School, supporting literacy development for middle-school students. This growth is in direct response to our community asking for more.

We find ourselves now at a pivotal moment when a deeper level of support is needed if we are to continue to flourish and serve a growing audience. The opportunity to acquire and renovate the Annex became the catalyst for this campaign. The expansion reflects our already thriving programs, a commitment to sustaining them, and an investment in our future as a vital resource for Ancram and beyond. We welcome all who want to join us!

Our Goal

CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS $750,000.

Funds are needed to restore the Annex into a viable facility providing intern and guest-artist housing, workshop space, and gathering areas for our patrons. The capital component also includes improved parking, an ADA-compliant restroom, and upgrades to our HVAC system to improve ventilation and air purification.

PROGRAM ENRICHMENT & SUSTAINABILITY $250,000.

Funds are needed to support expanded programming made possible by our new campus. This includes new community initiatives in storytelling and playwriting for kids and adults. Funds will also be set aside to cover higher operating costs resulting from the expansion, as well as for emergency needs.