By Ahmad Yassir, Vermont Country Magazine.
The newly revitalized Monument Arts & Cultural Center is quickly becoming a cornerstone of live entertainment and creative expression in the tri-state region. Under the passionate leadership of Executive Director Kristine Lewis, supported by a dynamic board and an ever-engaged community, the center has re-opened its doors with an electric sense of purpose—and audiences are taking notice.
This isn’t your average small-town stage. From the moment the curtain rises, every production at Monument Arts delivers a level of professionalism and heart that leaves audiences stunned. Their recent run of South Pacific drew in visitors from Vermont, New York, and Massachusetts, continuing the legacy of smash hits like Annie: The Musical and Million Dollar Quartet last winter. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, this theater never fails to impress.
But the magic doesn’t stop when the lights go down. Monument Arts & Cultural Center is a full-spectrum destination for arts and culture lovers. Enjoy live music on the sunlit patio, stroll through rotating gallery exhibitions, or participate in immersive visual arts workshops led by nationally recognized artists. The center also embraces healing through art with specialized wellness programs that foster creativity and inner peace.
This May, don’t miss their signature annual event
The “Let Us Entertain You” Gala—May 18th a festive celebration of talent, community, and performance ending the evening with Liz Larsen & Sal Viviano In TWO FOR THE ROAD … This husband and wife team boast Tony, Drama Desk, Broadway World, and Helen Hayes awards, plus an Outer Critics Circle nomination and more. Liz and Sal weave stories and songs in an often funny, always lively musical journey of their lives on the Broadway stage. It’s the perfect reason to dress up, come out, and support the arts in style. May 25th brings back Broadway & Hollywood royalty Maxwell Caulfield with his USA premiere of a sold-out performance of his one-man show from London’s Ellen Terry Barn Theatre. A lovely Tea and Q&A with Maxwell and his wife Juliet Mills. Tickets for all the events are on Monument’s website www.monumentcentervt.org.
Young performers are also getting their chance to shine through the center’s Music Camp, Musical Theater Camp, and the highly anticipated youth production of Into the Woods Jr. These camps give aspiring actors a unique opportunity to learn the ropes of the stage and perform in front of a live audience, guided by professional mentors.
Whether you’re into classic theater, contemporary musicals, fine arts, or family-friendly programs, Monument Arts & Cultural Center is a must-visit summer destination. With its vibrant energy and diverse offerings, it’s more than just entertainment—it’s a cultural heartbeat for Southern Vermont. Don’t forget “Jersey Boys will light up our stage in July.
So, do you love theater? Crave creativity? Seek connection through the arts? Then make your way to Monument Arts & Cultural Center, where every show, song, and story invites you to be part of something truly extraordinary. Support Bennington’s lovely nonprofit theatres.
