First Gathering Recap & an Important Question About the Future
Our first Performing Arts Group Gathering!
Last week marked a milestone: our inaugural Chattanooga Performing Arts Groups gathering. Around fifteen people joined us for the first gathering, representing independent performing arts artists, teachers, and organizations of all sizes and disciplines.
The conversation was passionate and engaging, and many lingered beyond our scheduled time because it felt invigorating to connect with others in our community. While the perspectives in the room were diverse, one clear theme emerged: space is our biggest concern.
Affordable, accessible, and well-equipped rehearsal and performance space remains a central challenge for Chattanooga’s performing arts community.
Attendees left energized—looking forward to our next gathering, staying engaged in the process, and committed to inviting others to join. This is the beginning of something we are building together—a collective voice for our performing arts community.
What Do We Want Out of This Group?
At the meeting, a crucial question arose: What do we want to achieve through this group for ourselves, organizations, and communities? Participants shared ideas for what they’d like to get out of future gatherings:
Clear goals for what we want to accomplish as a group and a performing arts community
A theme and plan for each meeting
Professional development opportunities
Stronger connections to each other and our organizations
Calendar and event sharing
Getting organized and committed as a collective
Ongoing progress updates for the PAC
Now, we’d love to hear from you:
What do you want this group to accomplish? Share your thoughts in the comments below or by clicking here to email Blake Harris, the project manager for the PAC. This group belongs to all of us, and your voice will help shape its purpose.
Artwork by Osnat Shavit