Rolling out the red carpet for 55 years

Fairmount Center for the Arts is turning 55, and it’s throwing a party for everyone.

“Doors opened for the first classes in March 1971,” executive director Elizabeth Bolander says. “It’s been fun to reflect on the past, focus on the present and plan for the future, but we’re definitely pausing to celebrate this occasion with a 55th anniversary party and we hope everyone reading this will join us.”

Fairmount Center plans to roll out the red carpet for guests and supporters past and present at the Hollywood-themed gala in February. All funds raised from the event will help continue the center’s mission of enriching lives through the arts.

“The funds will particularly support our free-to-the-public programming,” director of development Megan Sobnosky says. “These programs help make our experiences here more accessible for everyone. We understand that our typical multi-week classes and camps are not realistic for many individuals and families. Our free programming brings the arts to everyone.”

A Night in Hollywood

The 55th Anniversary Celebration on February 21 promises to be an evening filled with food, cocktails, live music, a silent auction and games. 

“We’ll have signature cocktails, delicious hors d’oeuvres and dinner from Trifles catering, dancing and an extravagant balloon installation by Extra Betty balloon stylists,” Megan says. “And we haven’t forgotten about the kids. We’re offering Adults Night Out, Kids Night In childcare, so parents can relax and enjoy the evening.”

Adults Night Out, Kids Night In will take place at the Novelty location for children ages 3 and above, $30 per child. Drop-off begins at 4:30 and pajamas, blankets and pillows are encouraged for this PJ party-themed event. 

“The kids will have a great time at their own event chaperoned by Fairmount teaching artists. Included is a pizza dinner, art activity and a movie,” Megan says. “It will be a fun night for the whole family.”

Megan and Elizabeth stress that the anniversary celebration couldn’t take place without the generosity of the donors. Specific sponsors for the evening include:

• Performance Sponsor: Shook Construction
• Ambience Sponsor: Event Source
• Cocktail Hour Sponsor: Lyndall Insurance
• Bar Sponsor: Ciuni & Panichi CPAs and Business Advisors
• Dessert Dash Sponsor (each table bids on a dessert and the winner gets first choice): Great Lakes Cheese
• Photo Booth Sponsor: Home Instead
• Community Sponsors: Great Lakes Valet, Nevar Dental and PuroClean.

Jan and Ron Kumin opened Fairmount Center for the Arts in 1971 to create a space for like-minded people to come together to express themselves artistically. That focus has never changed. 

“People come to connect with their peers and engage in something fulfilling and joyful,” Elizabeth says. “We’ve always been about expression. Our teaching artists work with everyone from beginners to professional artists and all programming is adaptable to every talent level. Just bring your curiosity and an open mind and we’ll help you discover the arts.”

Tickets to the 55th anniversary “A Night in Hollywood” celebration are available online at FairmountCenter.org (under the “Events” tab) or call Fairmount Center at 440-338-3171.

Fairmount Center for the Arts

• 8400 Fairmount Road, Novelty

• 106 Water Street, Chardon

440-338-3171

FairmountCenter.org