Page 38 - Montcross Are Chamber NCG 2026

Belmont Abbey College’s
New Campus Visual and Performing Arts

Center will be a cornerstone
Cultural Icon of artistic excellence,

enriching cultural life in the
By Lydia Cobb
Greater Charlotte region.

I magine sitting in the audience for the opening “The Visual and Performing Arts Center will be a
vibrant embodiment of the Benedictine values of
performance at Belmont Abbey College’s 1,000-
hospitality, community and tradition, providing a
seat Visual and Performing Arts Center (VPAC).
The lights dim, the curtains part, and the
said Adam Caruthers, Studio Principal at Little
Greater Charlotte region welcomes its newest dynamic space that nurtures creativity and growth,”
cultural landmark. Diversified Architectural Consulting. “Designed to
The vibrant $60 million venue will host theater, inspire both students and the greater public, it will
dance, visual and performing arts, exhibitions and serve as a lasting resource that strengthens bonds and
educational and cultural events. Versatile performance reflects Belmont Abbey’s commitment to tradition and
spaces are designed to enhance the audience fostering a vibrant community.”
experience and support diverse artistic disciplines. Community organizations eager to use the new
“This performing arts center is not only a space include:
transformative addition to the college, but also a • Gaston Dance – three annual performances
vital cultural resource for the greater Gaston County • Charlotte Symphony concerts
community,” said Phil Brach, Vice President of • Gaston Symphonic Band concert series
College Relations at Belmont Abbey College and a • Gaston County Art Guild exhibits
representative of the Community Leaders’ Advisory • Holy Angels art and talent shows
Committee. “Our vision is a shared one - by dedicating The center will elevate Gaston County as a
over half of the facility’s use to community groups, destination for high-quality events, boosting cultural
we’re creating a space that will truly serve and enrich and economic growth.
the entire community.” VPAC is funded through North Carolina state grants,
Strategically located along Abbey Lane between private donations and community partnerships. It is
the Science Building and Stowe Hall, the center part of the college’s $150 million Made True capital
was designed by Charlotte-based Little Diversified campaign, which commemorates Belmont Abbey’s
Architectural Consulting. Renderings reflect the 150th Anniversary in 2026. The arts center is expected
college’s Catholic heritage and Benedictine values, to open in early 2027.
blending Gothic elements with sunlight-filled For updates, visit:
modern spaces. belmontabbeycollege.
The facility will feature backstage areas, rehearsal edu/made-true
and control rooms, a dance studio and an art gallery.
Belmont Abbey will also renovate its 200-seat Haid
Theatre, constructed in 1929, farther down
Abbey Lane.

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