End of Year Campaign

Celebrating the Legacy and Preparing for the Future of Celebration Arts

THE PAST: In 1976, Los Angeles transplant James Wheatley, along with dancers Elaine Gosine and Pamela Kay created Celebration Dance Company. Ten years later, in 1986,  Mr. Wheatley established Celebration Arts as an "official" non-profit home for black artists and audiences in Sacramento. Later, the late, great, Myrtle Stephens became the first Artistic Director for the theatre, and she expanded programming even further.  Because of these incredible giants, and so many dedicated volunteers CELEBRATION ARTS has been an invaluable touchpoint where Black theatre, dance, and music has been nurtured, protected, and amplified. What began as a small dance company has grown into a cultural anchor for Sacramento; a place where young people can discover their voices, adults find belonging, and artists of all backgrounds come together to create work that reflects the beauty and richness of our community.

TODAY: For our 40^th year anniversary, we want to step into 2026 with a bold goal to raise $40,000 before the end of this year, December 31, 2025. Every gift helps ensure that Celebration Arts can continue to BE HERE next year, and into the next 40 years as we continue to steward artistic excellence through our plays and programming, and also expand our vision for the future.

THE FUTURE: The current circumstances of our community, and of our country reflect that wellness and healing (physical, mental, spiritual, financial) is of utmost importance for us to not only survive, but to thrive. If art is indeed a mirror of life, then Celebration Arts is committing to be a reflection of our community’s healing journey.  To position our theatre as a placemaking space where we partner with our community, schools, and health systems for education, wellness, and engagement. In 2026 we are starting with a focus on senior wellness through dancing, and other  movement classes, intergenerational programming, and upgrading our various rooms for community use (meetings, a self-tape room, rehearsal space).  Inherent in our name is the celebration of art, and our intention is to become a multi-use space where art can be medicine. As we step into this expanded vision, we need your support as we lay the foundation for expanded viability and visibility in our community.

Today, your gift supports:

• Operations – rent, utilities, insurance, office supplies, cleaning
• Costumes, sets and supplies for “Spark The Stage” - youth theatre programming that fosters confidence and creativity
• Plays, Dance, and Music performances that preserve the history and lineage of Black artistic expression
• A Teaching artist for senior line dance classes, chair yoga, and other movement 
• Accessible pricing so families can experience the arts together
• A safe and welcoming spaces for artists and audiences to learn, grow, and lead

By giving one time or becoming a monthly donor at one of our special 40 themed levels, you help sustain the next forty years of creativity, mentorship, and community building at Celebration Arts.

Together we can honor our history and spark a powerful new chapter for the artists and families who depend on this space. Your gift today keeps the legacy alive and ensures that our stage continues to shine for generations to come.

THANK YOU!