At The ArtsCenter, art is more than just entertainment—it is a lifeline to well-being, connection, and growth. Beyond our homes and workplaces, community requires a welcoming "third space" where creativity flourishes, relationships thrive, and everyone belongs.

Access to the arts directly enriches physical, mental, and social health across every stage of life. Our annual gala, A Big Night at the Lil' Ole Opry, brings a vibrant, fresh energy to celebrating this mission while raising the vital funds needed to keep world-class art, performances, and education accessible to ALL across Carrboro, Chapel Hill, Durham, and the greater Triangle.

Every dollar raised directly sustains and expands our core community initiatives:

Youth Equity: Powers full-year afterschool and summer camp scholarships for local youth, while driving our Arts in Education program to deliver hands-on creative learning directly to schools across Orange, Chatham, Alamance, and surrounding counties.
Artist Grants: Elevates emerging and underrepresented artists by providing dedicated 8-week exhibition opportunities in The ArtsCenter Gallery.
Community Access: Keeps transformative, contemporary exhibitions, unique live performances, and enriching educational programs open and affordable to every member of our region.

Join us, raise a glass, and help build a more connected, creative future together.

A Big Night at the Lil' Ole Opry

ArtsCenter GALA 2026

Team Members