The Toledo Alliance for the Performing Arts is moving locations.
The alliance, which consists of many of Toledo’s talented artists, including the Toledo Symphony, Toledo Ballet, Toledo Symphony School of Music, Toledo Symphony Youth Orchestras and other extraordinary Toledo groups, will be moving it’s administration offices and performing art classes to the former Masonic Temple on Heatherdowns.
“The move to the former Masonic Temple stands as a testament to our unwavering commitment to fostering the performing arts in Toledo,” Zak Vassar, President and CEO of TAPA, said in a statement. “The enhanced facilities and resources will empower our local talent, especially our budding student performers, and will provide a stable foundation for Toledo’s performing arts scene, bringing even more creative opportunities to our community. We’re beyond excited for this next chapter in TAPA’s story.”
Education programs that currently take place across three different campuses in the area, including music lessons, dance classes and youth orchestra rehearsals will move their activities to the new space. The new space will provide an “artistic hub” for the 650 music and dance students as well as the Toledo community, according to TAPA.
“One of the original visions for TAPA was to bring our education programs together under one roof,” TAPA Vice President of Education and Community Engagement Rachel Schultz said, “This facility not only doubles our current footprint but also provides the opportunity to synergize our educational programs and create space for real collaboration across disciplines.”
RELATED: Metropolitan Opera Stars Kathryn Lewek and Zach Borichevsky Perform ‘Romeo & Juliet’
In addition to the teaching, practice and rehearsal spaces the new building will also provide a large professional recording studio to Toledo artists.
They have already started renovating the historic Masonic Temple and expect to begin their move in the summer, with full operations beginning in the 2025-2026 season.
Owens Corning Foundation showed tremendous support to Toledo artists. According to TAPA, the foundation pledged $600,000 to assist the move.
“We are thrilled to stand alongside the Toledo Alliance for the Performing Arts in their endeavor to create a dynamic and inspiring space for the arts in Toledo,” Don Rettig, president of the Owens Corning Foundation, said. “The Owens Corning Foundation is dedicated to supporting initiatives that enrich the communities where we work and live. TAPA’s commitment to fostering talent and enhancing cultural experiences aligns seamlessly with our belief that investing in the arts is an investment in the well-being and vibrancy of our community.”
For more information on the new building, visit artstoledo.com/news/2024/01/24/home-news/toledo-alliance-for-the-performing-arts-ushers-in-new-era-for-toledo-s-arts-scene-with-move-to-the-historic-masonic-temple.
