After several years in the dark, the lights are coming back on in the heart of Hopewell.
The Hopewell Valley Arts Council is making plans to open the Hopewell Valley Stage, formerly the Hopewell Theater, at 5 S. Greenwood Ave. It is the intention of the arts council that the historic venue will once again serve as a home for the arts.
Thanks to a foundational grant from the Betty Wold Johnson Foundation, Hopewell Valley Stage will open for concerts, theater productions, film screenings, art workshops, and community talks.
It will also house the administrative offices of the Hopewell Valley Arts Council.
“We’re honored to breathe new life into this iconic space,” said Carol Lipson, executive director of the Hopewell Valley Arts Council. “Theater, music, art, and a place to gather aren’t luxuries—they’re vital to a thriving, connected community. This reopening restores a space for people from across Hopewell Valley to come together to be moved and inspired.”
Hopewell Valley Stage will also be available for rent by nonprofit organizations and commercial partners, with the goal of ensuring that it remains an active and accessible space for all.
While the support of the Betty Wold Johnson Foundation made reopening possible, the arts council says the venue’s success will depend on the ongoing support of the community — through donations and attendance at ticketed events.
“We’re excited to gather support and feedback from our neighbors during our soft launch,” said Maeli Goren-Wilson, newly appointed theater manager of Hopewell Valley Stage. “We’ll test out what types of events and offerings speak most to our community and refine our vision for success. We can’t wait to welcome artists and audiences to the Stage!”
The Arts Council will host an open house on Saturday April 18 from 2 to 5 p.m. featuring live music and tours of the venue. The box office will be open for visitors to purchase tickets to upcoming events. Web: hvartscouncil.org.
