>
Dear Friend,
​
Sostenuto. In music, it means sustaining. When you sustain notes or phrases, it creates a sense of continuity and expressiveness. For 36 years, Main Street Arts has sustained a dedication to making artistic expression available in our region. The generous support of people like you has made that happen.
You may have noticed our rapid growth in programming over the last year, as well as significant building renovations. We operate on a modest budget with only one part-time employee. Is our growth sustainable? 
​
Yes, if we are mindful of certain principles based on our values. 
  • Stay open and playful. This protects against burnout. 
  • Stay in touch with all ages and varieties of people. They guide our program choices.
  • Stay vigilant about lifting barriers to participation. This increases access to the arts for everyone.
  • Stay hopeful that participating in the arts creates well-being. This is our mission.

Our principles have led us to take action, including 26 free programs and events, 8 donation-based programs, and 4 low cost tuition based programs:
  • Creative Aging with free visual and performing arts classes and lunches.
  • Free theater residencies for grades 3-6 in the Windham Northeast Supervisory Union, Forest Theater Camp, and the upcoming “In the Time of Trolls” play for kids.
  • Joyful music-making in Children’s Chorus, Red Tent Singers, Ukulele class, String Band, Songwriter’s Circle, and Open Mics.
  • Swing, Tango, and Waltz dance lessons and parties.
  • Community-led programs such as Writers Studio and Tai Chi.
  • New energy-efficient heat pumps on our first floor, being installed now.
  • Rentals of our ADA-accessible building, including our new Gallery Lounge, for private events.
Sustaining works best when many people work together. We have an active board of directors, 50+ volunteers, 1,000+ participants, and donors who give generously according to their means. We need more than $50,000 to sustain our success. Please join us in the playful work of creating access to the arts this year! Donate at the link above,  or send a check to Main Street Arts at PO Box 100, ​Saxtons River, VT 05154.

Here’s to making a sostenuto joyful noise!

Susan Still, Board Chair & Ashley Storrow, Program Director


​To Donate By Mail, send a check to: Main Street Arts
​    PO Box 100, ​Saxtons River, VT 05154
To Donate By Phone, call the office at 802-869-2960
“There is no power for change greater than a community discovering what it cares about.”
—Margaret Wheatley