A blossoming performing arts scene donned in orange and white continues to pick up steam, and school administration is taking notice.
Elizabethton Director of Schools Dr. Corey Gardenhour recently announced during October’s Board of Education meeting that Elizabethton High School is orchestrating a fundraising campaign to create an at the school to accommodate students’ growing interest for art-related clubs and organizations at the school.
“We are in the process now of fundraising for a performing arts space at the high school,” Gardenhour told the Elizabethton Star Tuesday. “We’ve seen a big growth in students’ interest and participation in the arts. From drama and the arts to the Betsy Band, we’re seeing more and more students wanting to pursue these activities.”
Still in its infancy, Gardenhour the goal of the project is to raise $30,000 to bulk up the area with different resources for students, including a stage and lighting to go along with various performances. The plan is to use the outdoor courtyard located at the entrance of the high school, which separates the entry from the school’s main office and cafeteria.
“We believe that area is the best location,” he said. “We have Bartleby students that can use the stage for presentations. Our bands and theater departments can use the stage for one-act plays, musical performances. We want this to be a place for students to take an interest in the culture of the school and enhance their high school experience.”
Gardenhour added having the space available will continue to bolster the ability to make the lunch periods at the school a bit more interesting for students. Since changing their setup for lunch, the director added they’ve increased the students’ usage of food in the cafeteria by over half and the added participation could see strides with an arts area.
Adding some color and noise to the community is nothing out of the ordinary for EHS students. During its first year at the school, the Bartleby program has created a project, led by students, to create murals throughout downtown Elizabethton to add color. Drama students have also made their mark with the restoration of the Bonnie Kate Theater by participating in different performances.
Individuals can participate in the fundraising endeavor by either contacting the high school or Central Office.
“Once we receive a donation, we will have it earmarked for to an account that will go solely to the project,” Gardenhour said. “We’ve seen so much interest, and we encourage anyone that wants to support the project to do so if possible.”
For more information or how to get involved, call (423) 547-8000.