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Louisa Arts Center reports rising attendance, record sales and fundraising priorities; seeks ADA improvements
Summary
Karen Welch, executive director of the Louisa Arts Center, reported on a successful fiscal year with increased ticket sales, nine sold-out shows, a $419,000 income and plans to focus on affordability, accessibility and ADA compliance, including fundraising for a ramp for the Arts Bus.
The Louisa Arts Center reported a successful fiscal year to the Louisa County Board of Supervisors on Oct. 20, detailing rising attendance, sold-out shows and plans to improve accessibility and affordability.
Executive Director Karen Welch said the center recorded nine sold-out shows in the fiscal year and sold just over 3,100 tickets, a modest increase from the previous year. The center reported total income of about $419,000 and noted that the county appropriation accounts for roughly 14% of the center—s revenue. Welch highlighted a capital expense in recent years: new house lights for the theater that cost $76,000 (split over two fiscal years).
Welch described accomplishments including a student-led musical, expanded collaboration with local organizations such as Parks, Recreation and Tourism and the school system, and a successful Arts Bus program that visited all four elementary schools to bring arts activities to more than 2,500 students. She said the center launched an arts scholarship for graduating high-school students and will continue scholarships and low ticket prices (generally under $50) to maintain accessibility.
On accessibility, Welch said the center will focus on ADA compliance for the building and the Arts Bus and is already raising funds for a ramp for the bus; a staff member in a wheelchair will serve as the ADA compliance coordinator.
Ending Board members praised the center—s growth and Welch said the arts organization will continue pursuing sponsorships and local funding to keep ticket prices affordable and expand access.
