EATONTON, Ga. — The first half of 15th celebration has been a hit, now let’s look to part 2 at The Plaza The Plaza Arts Center is continuing to celebrate our 15th anniversary in 2023.

From piles of rubble, dilapidated floors and overall look of disrepair, saying that the building The Plaza has come a long way is an understatement.

Boasting a beautiful 500-seat theater, The Plaza is brimming with life. Since The Plaza opened in 2008, the stage has hosted the likes of Lee Greenwood, John Berry, The Gaitlin Brothers, tributes to classic bands like the Eagles, Fleetwood Mac, Jimmy Buffett and Elton John and has given a platform for new stars like country singer, Matt Rogers, pianist, Barron Ryan and the trio of classically trained musicians, Take3 Trio.

One thing that has stayed the same over the past 15 years is The Plaza’s mission of bringing the arts to the youth of our community with our educational programming. T

he proceeds from the live shows go directly towards what The Plaza does for young people. This includes the free after school art program, free community events in the spring, at Halloween and at Christmas, and of course, art camp and Camp Broadway during the summer. The true purpose of arts education is not to necessarily create more professional artists — it is to create more complete human beings who are critical thinkers, who have curious minds, who are empathetic and who lead productive lives. Perhaps the most obvious look at how these funds help our youth is by taking a glance at our Broadway Intensive program that The Plaza does with The Arts Barn.

Over the past three years, young adults aged 15 to 25 have gotten together to put on a professional-level musical performance directed by a Broadway veteran. This intensive performance is The Plaza’s single most expensive endeavor of the year. From feeding those involved during the week to costumes to set to performances expenses, this intensive program really packs a punch. However, the value that comes from the program greatly exceeds any financial costs.

The cast of the Broadway Intensive was involved in the younger kids’ Camp Broadway this summer. The cast also volunteers at community events at The Plaza, performs at Coffee Houses throughout the year, ultimately creating this unique arts community of young people. This group of young, committed arts ambassadors is exactly what The Plaza needs to keep the doors open for another 15, 50 — 100 years.

The best way to support The Plaza and the endeavors of bringing the arts to everyone in the community is by first and foremost, coming to shows, community events and visiting The Plaza. Once you get a feel for what goes on, becoming a member is the next step in continuing your support. Memberships start at just $150/year and include free tickets, discounts on rentals and so much more.

The Plaza would not exist if it weren’t for patrons coming to shows and you have so many more opportunities to come out this year. October is our Homegrown Talent concert featuring Matt Rogers as the headliner. RJ Sanders, Luke Boswell and Fall Line Rambler will join Rogers to create a night full of great music on The Plaza lawn. Also in October is something special — our second edition of Behind the Curtain. Behind the Curtain is an intimate event in celebration of The Plaza’s 15th year!

The evening will start off with a performance in the theater, you will mingle with other guests and then enjoy an exquisite dinner sitting on the historic Plaza stage.

Ontario Williams is a teacher in the Putnam County School System and is a classically-trained vocalist. From hymns to Broadway hits, Williams could sing the phonebook and we would listen. If you haven’t heard his voice, here is your chance! Mark your calendars for the next Behind the Curtain event on October 6, 2023. Tickets are $150 and include an open bar, dinner and dessert and a performance from Ontario. This event is truly something incredible.

November is Plaza Alliance for the Performing Arts, PAPA’s, production of “Twelve Angry Jurors.” “Twelve Angry Jurors” is produced by PAPA and is cast of all community members, making it even more special of a show. The play has been a successful and highly acclaimed drama, both for the script and for the intensity of the acting. The play demonstrates the possible difficulties that a case can present to a jury in their deciding of either acquitting or declaring guilt for an accused, especially as it was in the 1950s.

The accused is a youth from a poor urban area who is on trial for first degree murder of his father with a switch blade. The jury’s decision must be unanimous. Emotions run very high with great levels of tensions. Juror accusations toward each other bring them close to violence right there In the jury room. PAPA performed this play in 2011 to sold out audiences and to great acclaim.

And finally, Joe Gransden wraps up The Plaza’s entertainment year on Dec. 9. With his big band, jazzy approach to the Christmas classics, Joe Gransden live at The Plaza will be a night to remember. Whether you like PAPA’s plays or tribute bands, The Plaza has something for everyone. We look forward to continuing to celebrate our 15th year with everyone during the second half of our entertainment season!