Art Council that Enriches Community

Through the joining of the Finger Lakes Regional Arts Council, Inc. and the Geneva Arts Development Council in 2008, The Smith Center for the Arts, Inc. was born. The Regional Arts Council had been providing live events and film productions for years, but they felt they could do more good by joining with the Geneva Arts Development Council. Geneva had previously been responsible for a variety of summer festivals, special events, an arts event calendar packed with occasions throughout the year, a weekly email newsletter, and marketing of their arts initiatives. Everything the organizations did before the merger will continue. The two organizations provide a "... focused, unified approach to future arts programming in and out of the Smith Opera House.''

As the Smith Opera House grows, there are plans to add a state of the art digital projector, a centralized ticketing system, and a new CEO. The mission remains an inspiration to the art community in New York and state, "The Smith Center for the Arts, Inc. is committed to providing and sustaining diverse arts and education enrichment opportunities for Finger Lakes residents and visitors, while maintaining its historic venue - the Smith Opera House.'' The vision of the opera house is to create a vibrant community through the arts.

Geneva is considered the hub of the Finger Lakes artist community. This is where visitors and residents can enjoy theatre, music, dance, and visual arts. The center provides art entertainment, art education, and art celebrations. This lakeside town is great for those who appreciate nature, art, and peaceful surroundings. Far removed from the hustle and bustle of the city, this area is relaxing and provides a great destination for quiet vacations, or introspective trips alone.

There is a gift shop onsite that features artwork of regional artists, puppets, soap, scarves, handicrafts like baskets and jewelry, and a variety of paintings. The Stage Door Gift Shop also sells glassware, mugs, books, holiday ornaments, and posters. The hours of the shop are Wednesday through Friday from noon until 4 pm, and Saturdays from 10 am until 1 pm. The shop is also open during many of the live theater events.

The Opera House welcomes volunteers and there are numerous opportunities to help out. You can operate a concession stand, usher at a variety of events, help with fundraising, distribute marketing materials, work in the office, work in the gift shop, or help care for the building and provide building maintenance. Receiving discounted admission to some of the events and attending the volunteer reception are among the benefits of helping at the Opera House.

Most visitors to events and special presentations want to dine before or after the event, and Geneva features no shortage of fine and casual dining options. Located near the lakefront are Dana's Time Out, Madderlake Cafy, Parkers Grill and Taphouse, and Edgars and Stonecutters. For a quirky post-event time, try Irene's Coffee and Jazz House. This hipster destination brews and teas, all in a jazz filled environment.

Visit Lake Geneva for a quiet getaway, and while you are there, spend time enjoying the arts and culture at the Smith Opera House.