The third phase of the Tannery Arts Center Project will create a place for the community to enjoy the creativity and artistic activity presented on the 8.2-acre campus at many different levels from simple observation to serious study. The Center for Performing Arts and Community Center will be the hub of activity for the community and visitors alike. This will be the starting point for the history exhibits, open studio events and special festivals. This will also be the place to sign up for classes in dance, music, drama and art. And this will be a place to stop rest and enjoy the rich diversity of artistic and cultural talent assembled at the Tannery Arts Center.

Community Theater – Based on the “Black Box” concept the Community Theater will have flexible seating for up to 150 seats to for presentations in any number of configurations from the traditional “auditorium” to theater in the round. The theater will be small enough to host the intimate community theater performances unique to Santa Cruz and yet large enough to provide an alternative to the larger venues at the local college and university. The theater will also provide the needed back stage and support areas such as dressing rooms, green rooms and rehearsal and storage areas lacking in other local community theaters. This will be a truly professional level theater for our local dance, drama, film and music groups to present their talent.

Classrooms – Drawing on the diversity of artistic and cultural talent in our community visitors and locals alike will be able to take classes in both the visual and performing arts utilizing the facilities at the Tannery Arts Center. Working with local artists, the university and college the Tannery Arts Center will offer art classes that will allow everyone an opportunity to enjoy the creative process from the casually interested to the serious student.

Offices and Meeting Rooms – Through the support of the community and grants from governments and foundations we will be able to offer affordable office and meeting space for our local nonprofit arts and cultural organizations so that they can continue to focus their work on delivering their creative programming to the community.

Café/restaurant, Shops & Galary – The Tannery Arts Center will also offer a place to have a bite to eat after class or before the theater, shop for art and view the works of our local artists. All of this on a dynamic campus where the creative arts are being practiced daily.