Shaping the Future of
Chattanooga’s Performing Arts.
The Chattanooga Community Performing Arts Center initiative began with one simple question: What does our performing arts community need to thrive? Guided by ArtsBuild and the Lyndhurst Foundation, and informed by Webb Mgmt’s nationally recognized expertise, we launched a feasibility study process to uncover both the opportunities and challenges facing performing arts in Chattanooga.
This site exists to promote transparency and involvement, two values essential to this process. By openly sharing updates, resources, and opportunities to participate, we aim to ensure that the vision for the potential future PAC is shaped by the voices of the artists, organizations, and community members it will serve.
For decades, Chattanooga’s performing arts community has shared the same challenges:
too few rehearsal and mid-size performance spaces, limited technical and shared resources, and barriers that make it harder for audiences to access and enjoy local performances.
These long-standing needs affect us all and limit what’s possible for artists, organizations, and the community alike.
The current reality
of Chattanooga’s Performing Arts Community.
Here are some of the barriers that organizations experience:
Lack of rehearsal space- No spaces solely dedicated to rehearsals and incubation.
No mid-size performance venues- Missing 150–400 seat venues prevents growth and limits programming.
No shared shop or resources- Scenic, costume, storage, and equipment access is siloed, leaving small groups without tools.
No central hub- Chattanooga lacks a visible, shared performing arts center for artists and audiences.
Artist retention challenges- Limited infrastructure pushes local talent to leave for better-supported cities.
Feasibility Study Process
Inspired by these long-standing conversations, the Lyndhurst Foundation and ArtsBuild took action by hiring local arts administrator, professor, and theatre director Blake Harris to lead the effort as the project manager. To guide the process, a committee of artists and community members was formed to help select a partner with national expertise. Through that process, the firm Webb Mgmt was chosen to conduct a feasibility study, bringing data and analysis to better understand the barriers facing Chattanooga’s performing arts community.
