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Simsbury Meadows Performing Arts Center board previews Jan. 24 referendum, aims to open by July 4
Summary
The Simsbury Meadows Performing Arts Center board told the Culture, Parks & Recreation Commission it has raised about $1 million, expects roughly $900,000 from the state and is asking voters to approve a $388,000 appropriation (about one-third of which is contingency) in a Jan. 24 referendum; the facility aims to open by July 4.
Mr. Dornenburg, chairman of the Simsbury Meadows Performing Arts Center board, updated the Culture, Parks & Recreation Commission on the center’s renovation and programming plans ahead of a Jan. 24 referendum on a $388,000 appropriation for part of the project.
Dornenburg said the board has raised about $1 million toward the project and expects roughly $900,000 in state support. He told commissioners that approximately one-third of the $388,000 appropriation is planned as contingency funding. The board is seeking voter approval in the Jan. 24 referendum to finalize that appropriation.
The board provided a summer programming preview: the schedule being considered includes a Juneteenth event (details pending), the Talcott Mountain Music Festival in July, a Warp Tour tribute band and the Indigo Girls in August, and a hoped-for Jason Blaine appearance in September. Dornenburg said the center is shifting from primarily a rental facility toward programming it schedules itself and hopes to offer a subscription concert series in 2027.
On staffing and governance, Dornenburg said the board is 24 seats with 18 currently filled and that the group is actively recruiting additional members. He described the organization as a nonprofit and said affordability for attendees is a priority as they seek partnerships to increase reach.
Next steps: the referendum is scheduled for Saturday, Jan. 24; if approved, Dornenburg said the Performing Arts Center should be ready to open by July 4. The commission did not take a formal vote on the presentation but heard the board’s funding and scheduling plans.
